Acts 15:1-222-29, Rev 21: 10-14,22-23, John 14: 23-29
The readings for the 6th Sunday of Easter enlighten us about the essence of community and the precious gift of peace that Jesus offers us. In the first reading from the acts of the Apostles, we see the early church navigating a conflict about tradition and inclusion. The Apostles and the elders, guided by the Holy Spirit, come together, listen to one another and choose unity over division. This shows us that true community is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of love, humility and the desire for unity in Christ. And today’s Psalm echoes this theme beautifully as it invites all nations to worship the Lord. “May God be gracious to us and bless us”, the psalmist sings, reminding us that God’s blessings are meant to flow through us to one another. This prayer for the flourishing of all people underscores our shared mission to be bearers of God’s light in a world that often feels divided. In the second reading from the book of Revelation, we see a vision of the new Jerusalem, a place of unity and Divine presence. The description of God dwelling among His people compels us to reflect on our communities. Are we fostering environments where everyone feels welcomed and embraced? The image of the city being lit by the glory of God reminds us that our lives must radiate that same divine light, guiding others towards hope.
In today’s gospel passage, Jesus reveals to his Apostles the secret to ensure his presence in their midst, and the light to discover him: the observance of his only commandment, the command of Love. Jesus passes on to give to his apostles such incredible promises that no one on earth would have ever dreamt of or thought possible: Let them fulfil his command of mutual love and not be alone. But his father and the spirit, too, will come and establish their abode, not just in their midst, but within their own hearts; and theirs, says Jesus, will not be a passing, temporary visit; they will become their abiding guests. Who could have ever thought of having God so close to oneself? Closer than two people covering face to face are to each other? The promise that we will come and make our home evokes Old Testament tabernacle imagery (Ezekiel 37:27). In contrast to the Jewish idea of God dwelling in the temple, Jesus promises that God will dwell in the believer. Obedience is a manifestation of love. To reject Jesus’ word is to reject the Father. Jesus emphasizes that his message is not autonomous but divinely sourced, reinforcing his unity with the Father. “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I have said to you.” The Greek word Parakletos can mean advocate, helper or comforter. It refers to the Holy spirit as a divine teacher and presence. The spirit will not bring new revelation but clarity, deepen. And help the community remember Jesus words – a strong support for apostolic tradition and Johannine authority.
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 let them be afraid. Peace: more than absence of conflict it implies fullness, wholeness and divine presence. The world’s peace is temporary, or superficial; Jesus offers divine peace that is sustained through trials. These words are intended to calm the disciples facing fear and uncertainty about Jesus’ departure. “You heard me say to you I am going away, and I am coming to you. If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the father, because the father is greater than I”. The going refers to Jesus’ death and return to the Father; the ‘coming’ could mean his resurrection or the sending of the spirit. “The father is greater than I”; this does not imply inequality in divinity but refers to functional subordination in incarnation. In returning to the Father, Jesus is glorified. Disciples should rejoice in Jesus’ exaltation, not mourn his departure. If they really loved Him, they should rejoice, rather than be sorry, at his going back to his father to be given a glory which was really unique. To be sure, in departing from his apostles to enter into his well-deserved glory, Jesus was thinking not so much about himself as about his apostles. His departure would bring them incomparable gain.
As we reflect on these readings, we are called to embody this peace in our interactions with one another. In a world often marked by strife, we are invited to be peacemakers. Let us ask ourselves: do we allow Christ’s peace to reign in our hearts? Are we building unity, or clinging to division? May we open ourselves to the Spirits’ guidance, that our lives may be signs of the new Jerusalem where love and light dwell.