TUESDAY, SIXTH WEEK OF EASTERTIDE
Acts 16: 22-34 Ps 138: 1-3, 7-8 Jn 16: 5-11
JESUS ACCOMPLISHED THE MISSION
Jesus’ presence in human history was for a specific purpose. It was to reconcile the estranged humanity with God. God spoke to humanity in variety of ways, to bring us to himself!. But his attempts were thwarted by human arrogance who kept on seeking happiness in immediate comforts, pleasures and entertainment. Therefore in the fullness of time God loved us so much that he himself chose to become Man in Jesus. Jesus accomplished his mission becoming like us in everything to show us the true path to happiness here and holiness beyond, and strengthened us in our purpose. The Gospel today speaks of that farewell discourse of Jesus. He declares that he has completed his mission. He also assures the apostles with comfort at the news of his imminent departure. Hence Jesus assured that his Holy spirit will be with them for all times to guide them. He will indict the adamant world of its reticence to acknowledge Jesus. It is active rejection of Jesus as the true presence of God’s mercy; it is also rejection of Jesus as the true righteousness evidenced by his victorious return to His father; and of Judgement because Jesus has conquered the world by greater love and inaugurated the defeat the ubiquitous enslaving selfishness.
Church therefore, is the historical extension of Jesus power of healing the world, and naturally undergoes the same fate of Jesus. The nascent church initiated by St Paul and Silas was persecuted and subjected to terrible violence. But like Jesus, they stayed strong; they did not run away. They even prayed in the prison and their prayer shook the walls of the prison and they were even free to escape. However, they as righteous Christians, remained still and witnessed to Jesus’ presence in their life. That unique and free behaviour so different from the usual, surprised the jailer and the first small community of believers began among the very people who hated it. Today Christ wins in similar fashion in and through me, when I choose to abide by his commandments, and be another Christ to my brothers and sisters in need!
Response: With your right hand you save me, O Lord.
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