Eastertide 6th Sunday May 25 2025
John 14: 23-29 Jesus replied, “Anyone who loves me will obey my teaching. My Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. 24 Anyone who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.
25 “All this I have spoken while still with you. 26 But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. 27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
28 “You heard me say, ‘I am going away and I am coming back to you.’ If you loved me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I. 29 I have told you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe.
In this passage, Jesus reveals the promise of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate who will dwell with us and guide us in truth. He assures us that love for Him is shown through obedience to His word, and that the Father will love those who keep His commandments. The peace Jesus gives is not like the world’s peace, but a deep, abiding peace that overcomes fear and anxiety. As we journey through Eastertide, this reminder of Jesus’ presence and the gift of the Spirit encourages us to live boldly in faith, trusting in the peace that transcends all understanding.
Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure by promising the Spirit’s coming, a source of comfort and strength. This passage invites us to open our hearts to the Spirit’s work in our lives, transforming us into people of peace and love. In the resurrection, Christ has conquered death and given us hope—may we carry this hope into our daily lives, sharing the peace of Christ with those around us.
Prayer: Risen Lord, You have promised us the gift of your Spirit, the Advocate who dwells within us and leads us into all truth. Fill our hearts with your peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to love you fully by keeping your word and to trust in your abiding presence.
As we celebrate the joy of Eastertide, may your Spirit empower us to live as your witnesses in the world, sharing your peace and love with all whom we meet.
Guide us, strengthen us, and renew our hope, that we may reflect your light in every corner of our lives.
Amen.