Acts 13: 13-25; Psalm 89; John 13: 16-20
Conflict still marks the early church. John leaves Paul and Barnabas to return to Jerusalem; this will eventually cause the two missionaries to the Gentiles to split. Today Paul speaks to Jews in the idiom they can understand, God’s dealing with people of Israel over the centuries. From David’s line, “God has brought a Savior, Jesus, as God promised.” If Paul is speaking in Hebrew there is a wonderful play on words. Savior in Hebrew is yesh, the root of the name Jesus, Jeshua. God’s promise, the unconditional covenant made with David, is celebrated in Psalm 89. Today’s gospel sets the scene: Jesus has just washed the feet of his disciples. Now, and for the next few weeks, he will share his final words and prayer with them. He concludes today: “Whoever receives me receives God who sent me.”
How do you want to receive God today? What are you waiting for the Spirit to being you, to bring us, on Pentecost? You may receive Christ today in the Eucharist, but how will you receive Christ in the eucharist of daily living? Pray for open eyes and ears to recognize the good shepherd today, and to give thanks (eucharisto).
We too are a church in conflict, as well you know, Jesus. We pray for our leaders, and we pray for the least of our brothers and sisters. Satisfy our hopes, we beg.