Readings:
Acts 18: 23-28
John 16: 23-28
Reflection:
Jesus Intercedes for Us
In his intimate sharing with his Chosen disciples on the night before he goes to his death, Jesus tells them: “Anything you ask for from the Father he will grant in my name.”
Jesus shows that He stands as the Mediator of the New Covenant, as one greater even than Moses who was able to intercede before the Supreme God, and bring saving mercy to his People, sinful and stubborn though they often were.
Jesus shows Himself as the High Priest of a New and Perfect Covenant. He, as man – as one of us, shares intimately in the Life and Communion with His Father.
So Jesus tells us: –
“Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. – Ask and you will receive.”
What do I venture to ask for from God ? – a new car ?
– a loved one to be healed?
– recovery from a breakdown or mental illness ?
– for a son or daughter who is in a precarious situation?
Jesus, I think expects us to use our spiritual insight to ask for what is good and according to the mind of Christ. But we are asked to have confidence in Jesus who is our elder Brother, our High Priest and our Saviour before the Living God. He tells us simply: “Ask and you will receive.”
Let us take him at his word.
Pat McIndoe CP, a Passionist at St. Gabriel’s Retreat, Boroko, Port Moresby