Sunday | May 9, 2021
John 15:9-17
The cycle of love is revealed through Jesus words and deeds, through Jesus’ very self. It begins with the relationship between the Father and the Son, poured out on us, drawing us into that divine relationship and compelling us to love one another.
We know that God loves but to reflect on the fact that God is love takes our understanding of God, as limited as it might be, to a whole new level.
Saturday | May 8, 2021
John 15:18-21
There is an analogy between the way the world treats Jesus and the way it treats those who believe in him. The servants are not greater than their master and thus are not immune from suffering and persecution.
It is difficult to understand how to be in but not of the world. It’s easy to get caught up in all the world has to offer. Show me the way.
Friday | May 7, 2021
John 15:12-17
It is Jesus who first chooses his disciples and invites them into a loving friendship with him. Accepting Jesus’ invitation into that relationship calls for their going out and sharing that love with others. This is Jesus’ command.
Your commands do not limit us. They set us free from all that keeps us from loving you and one another.
Thursday | May 6, 2021
John 15:9-11
Those who believe are drawn into the mutual love of Father and Son through Jesus’ love. Those who believe respond to God’s love by serving and loving others. This love is not without trial and suffering but through the suffering comes great joy.
It’s hard to forget times of suffering but to remember the good that comes is where hope is found.
Wednesday | May 5, 2021
John 15:1-8
This Gospel is a beautiful and meaningful expression of relationship that the believer must take to heart. We are all connected to God and to one another. God is our center and our source.
Your peace surpasses all understanding. When I allow myself to enter into your peace I find that I have all that I need in you.
Tuesday | May 4, 2021
John 14:27-31
Jesus offers peace and consolation to the troubled disciples. Their time together is going to change. All that he has told them will ultimately help them understand his mission and courageously endure their own. His peace, the peace of the Father, will carry them through suffering and death to resurrection.
Your peace surpasses all understanding. When I allow myself to enter into your peace I find that I have all that I need in you.
Monday | May 3, 2021
John 14:6-14
Jesus tells Thomas that he is the way to the Father. Phillip wants to see the Father. Though clearly exasperated, Jesus continues the discussion by saying again that his words and his works are the words and works of the Father. He then turns attention to the disciples by telling them that he is their advocate. They need only ask in Jesus’ name and they will be able to do what he has done, and more.
I pray, “… in your holy name” without really thinking about what it means. Your name, Jesus, is more than a name. It is who you are. You are God.
Sunday | May 2, 2021
John 15:1-8
Jesus’ use of the metaphor of the vine describes the disciple’s relationship with him and with the Father. The commandment of love is rooted in the love of the Father and the Son and the love of Jesus and his disciples. It is a love both mutual and reciprocal. For John, the love Christians have for one another is a reflection of the love God has for them.
How well do I love? I fear my love is sometimes conditional, selfish and half-hearted. Help me to love selflessly, without conditions and with my whole heart.
Saturday | May 1, 2021
John 14:7-14
The disciples closest to Jesus are trying his patience. Philip’s request is a tipping point. They have been with him. They have heard him teach, seen him pray and yet they still do not understand that his relationship with the Father is more than their understanding of family. He and the Father are one.
You empowered your disciples and in the same way you empower me to do great things in your name, in the name of the Father.
Friday | April 30, 2021
John 14:1-6
The disciples are troubled by Jesus’ impending departure. They neither understand where he is going nor do they understand if they will be able to follow. He reminds them to have faith and tells them that he will not only prepare a place for them, he will come back to get them.
You pave the way and I take detours. You make it easy and I make it difficult. How often I forget that you have already taken care of everything.
