Saturday of the Sixth Week of Easter
In today’s Gospel, Jesus told his disciples, “Until now you have not asked anything in my name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be complete,” (John 16:24). But what are the disciples supposed to ask for? Throughout this chapter in the Gospel of John, Jesus is saying goodbye to his followers. He talked to them about their faith and belief in him and the love between him and the Father and the Father’s love for them (John 16:22). I noticed that of the theological virtues (faith, love/charity, and hope) mentioned, hope is missing. Perhaps that is what the disciples are to ask for so that their joy may be complete.
Throughout the farewell discourse, Jesus alluded to his disciples to have hope, He explained that he will leave him but the Advocate will come and be among them to guide them. The Advocate’s presence is a reminder that righteousness triumphed because he returned to the Father. They (and we) will never be without the presence of God. Remaining in Jesus’ love (John 15:4) lets joy arise out of grief, pain, and loss. Without death, there is no resurrection. That is hope.
As we approach Ascension and Pentecost, let us invite God’s presence into our lives. Let us ask for hope for ourselves and others especially in times of grief and pain and in a world that many times seems to be a world of despair.
—Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI