Gospel
John 16:29-33
The disciples said to Jesus, "Now you are talking plainly, and not in any figure
of speech. Now we realize that you know everything and that you do not need to have anyone question you. Because of this we believe that you came from God." Jesus answered them, "Do you believe now? Behold, the hour is coming and has arrived when each of you will be scattered to his own home and you will leave me alone. But I am not alone, because the Father is with me. I have told you this so that you might have peace in me. In the world you will have trouble, but take courage, I have conquered the world.”

Reflection
These words were spoken toward the end of Jesus’ ministry.
And what He's distinguishing for us is two things. One is, do you believe that Jesus is who He said He is? And the other is, do you believe that you have become like Him? Filled with spirit, filled with truth. It seems to me that the disciples in this story, since they turn away and run when He's in trouble, means that they don't fully yet understand, what's the difference?
What happened? It’s that mysterious moment when after Jesus died, He entered into them. Belief is not just information, it's transformation.

Closing Prayer
Father, you and you alone are the source of the wisdom that we long to engage in. To be fully who you want us to be. Give us an open heart that we receive this gift and stop trying to achieve it or earn it. It is your gift to us and then to the world. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

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