6th Sunday of Easter
It is hardly surprising that the great theme of the gospel of John, which many scholars consider to be the work of the Beloved Disciple, is the theme of love! One of the most known and quoted texts in the Scriptures is John 3.16, “For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son so that everyone who believes in him might not perish but might have eternal life.” God the Father showed the greatest love of all by sending his own Son, who in turn will show the depth of His love by giving himself up to death on a cross for the world’s salvation.
The word “love” appears 57 times in this gospel, more often than in the other three gospels combined. That theme of love is continued in John’s letters, as we see in the second reading today: “Beloved, love one another because love is of God.”
The gospel reading continues that theme as Jesus speaks to the hearts of his disciples as he elevates the nature of his relationship with them, from servants to friends, to which we all aspire. Jesus’ love for them has established a new relationship that can only be sustained by remaining in his love and keeping his commandments. “This I command you: love one another. “
In that inspiring recent publication, A Eucharistic Spirituality, by Father Paul Bernier SSS and Jim Brown, the theme of love is shown to be “the practical foundation and spirit of a truly Eucharistic life.” Our founder, who greatly loved the Gospel of John, has shown us how to live this gospel. The seat of faith is not in the mind but in the heart.
“Love and do what you will.” (Saint Augustine).
Let us Pray:
Lord, our hearts overflow with gratitude as we become more aware of the love you poured upon us. We ask that you send your Spirit into our hearts, enabling our gratitude to overflow in loving kindness to others. In Jesus name, we pray: Amen.
