That they be one

Acts 20:28-38, Jn 17:11-19. Today's first reading invites us to be on our guard and rely on the power of the Holy Spirit. In his farewell speech, Paul enjoins the Church leaders in Ephesus to remember his example of manual labour and of tirelessly preaching of the Gospel. One of the benefits of work is to enable us to help people weaker than us. Church leaders are challenged to serve the people, not exploit them but build up the community. Paul quotes as a maxim of Jesus: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Despite all difficulties facing our Church, we are encouraged to live joyfully, for Jesus intends that we share in His joy. Trusting in Him fits us well enough to face whatever the future may bring. He has watched over His disciples and protected them. Now His prayer for them continues His loving care. His intercessory prayer is an extension of the many ways he had served them since they first began to follow Him.

In a similar way, our prayer for others is an extension of our care for them; it is another form of service. At the heart of Jesus’ priestly prayer is a plea for unity: "That they be one", as Father and Son are one. In today's Gospel, Jesus wants His disciples to remain in the fullness of joy that springs from the source of intimate union with God. The Word of Jesus will constantly sanctify us and consecrate us in truth. The disciples, to be protected from the assault of the world and to remain in His truth, need to be in touch with His Word and encounter it as the measure of truth.

May the Lord help us to be at our best so that our lives may truly be exemplary and good, filled with obedience to God and the desire to serve Him and to live our lives to the fullest with the guidance from God! Amen!! Stay safe and have a productive day!!!