The Book of John: God Became FleshУзор

When a person knows death is near, perhaps because of a long illness or a long life, they might spend time telling the people they love what is most important. We call this “getting your affairs in order.” When death is near, we rarely talk about temporary things like dishes in the sink and that project at the office. We focus on what’s most important: love, family, faith.

On the night before he died, Jesus ate a last meal with his closest followers. He knew he was going to die for the sins of the world, and that soon after he would return to the Father in heaven. But before all of this happened, Jesus wanted to tell his followers what was foremost on his mind.

What did Jesus focus on? He promised that he would send the Holy Spirit, who would help us and be with us forever. He promised peace, peace that is unlike any peace the world can give. He told his closest followers, and us, to remain as close to him as a grape vine remains close to its branch; just as the branch gives the vine life, so Jesus will give us life. He told them to love one another. He also warned them: the world will oppose everyone who follows Jesus fully. They can’t help it; they didn’t love him, so they won’t love us.

Jesus didn’t tell us to love people when it’s easy to love them or to serve them in hopes they will serve us in return. That’s not how he loved. That’s not how he served. As we together fully follow him, let’s remember the most important things he wanted to say before he died: the Holy Spirit is always with us, he gives peace, we are to stay close to him, and to love one another and the world. As he did.

Pray: Dear God, help me to remember the most important things. You love me so that I can love others. Help me to do that generously and joyfully. Amen.