Now we believe that you came from God

Readings: 1^st: Acts 19:1-8; Ps: 67; Gos: John 16:29-33

This brief reflection was written by Rev. Fr. Njoku Canice Chukwuemeka, C.S.Sp. He is a Catholic Priest and a Member of the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers and Brothers (Spiritans). He is currently working with the Spiritan International Group of Puerto Rico &  Dominican Republic. He is the Administrator of Parroquia La Resurrección del Senor, Canovanas and the Chancellor of the Diocesis of Fajardo-Humacao, Puerto Rico. For more details and comments contact him on: canice_c_njoku@yahoo.com, cancilleriadfh@gmail.com, canicechukwuemeka@gmail.com 

Today is Monday of the Seventh week of Easter. In today’s Gospel, the words and advice of Christ seem to become clearer to his disciple.

Now, they appear to understand what he has been trying to communicate to them through parables and stories.

So, after listening to him, they said to him: “Now, you are speaking plainly and not using veiled language. Now, we see that you know everything. Because of this we believe that you came from God.”

Now, they have become convinced of both who Christ is, and about the veracity of his word and mission. This long discourse has finally made a big difference in their life.

This is the power of dialogue. This is the power of sitting and listening attentively to Christ. This is the power of allowing him to speak to us.

However, the disciples thought that they have understood everything. Yes, they have received a true light to clarify their problems, but it was still a very dim light. They need more clarity.

Though dim, this light is the fundamental intuition of faith according to which Jesus is for us. the revelation of God the Father.

So, in spite of its dimness, at least, this light provoked a tremendous profession of faith from the disciples of Christ: “Now we believe that you came from God.” A new thing has happened.

Wisdom has shined its light on them. This light illumined their heart and mind, that has been long darkened by unbelief.  This was only the beginning. The Holy Spirit will reveal more things about Christ to us, when he eventually comes.

So, let us pray that on Pentecostés day we may receive the Holy Spirit and his gifts, that his coming will help us mature in our faith in Christ. Alleluia, alleluia!

Peace be with you all!

Maranatha!