The Paradox of Absence: Finding Strength in Jesus’ Departure
“For the Souls in Purgatory – Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord”
John 16:5-11
But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ But because I told you this, grief has filled your hearts. Nevertheless I tell you the truth, it is better for you that I go, for if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. And when he comes he will convict the world in regard to sin and righteousness and condemnation: sin, because they do not believe in me; righteousness, because I am going to the Father and you will no longer see me; condemnation, because the ruler of this world has been condemned.
Grace Prayed For
We pray for the grace to understand and embrace the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives and in the world, trusting in his power to convict hearts and guide us in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Reflection
In the shadow of the approaching Passion, Jesus speaks words that might seem paradoxical: his departure is for their good. Our human hearts naturally cling to presence, to the tangible. Yet, Jesus reveals a deeper truth rooted in the power of the Resurrection. His ascension to the Father doesn’t signify absence but rather the opening of a new reality – the coming of the Advocate, the Holy Spirit. This Spirit, the very power that burst forth from the tomb, will convict the world, exposing the depths of sin that rejected Christ, revealing the righteousness vindicated by his return to the Father, and declaring the ultimate defeat of the power of darkness through his death and resurrection. Understanding this gives us profound hope as we carry out the Great Commission. We are not alone; the Spirit of Truth, the convicting power of the Resurrection, goes before us and works within those we encounter.
Growing in Intimacy/Union with Jesus
This passage deepens our intimacy with Jesus by revealing his continued care for his disciples, even as he prepares to leave them physically. His promise to send the Advocate demonstrates his enduring presence and active role in their lives and ours. Understanding the purpose and power of the Holy Spirit, sent by Jesus, allows us to recognize his ongoing work in the world and our dependence on him, fostering a more profound connection and reliance on his promises.
When Time Allows Reflect on the Posts in Library and Musings
Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post