I.Theme – We will know Jesus after his resurrection in the Holy Spirit. This Spirit, the Spirit of Truth will abide in us as Jesus abides in us.
"The Advocate" –Misioneros Del Sagrado Corazón en el Perú.
The lectionary readings are here or individually:
Old Testament – Acts 17:22-31
Psalm – Psalm 66:7-18 Page 674, BCP
Epistle –1 Peter 3:13-22
Gospel – John 14:15-21
This week is somewhat philosophical in the search for meaning – who will support the disciples after Jesus is gone ?
Paul goes to Athens and tries to build a common basis with Greek philosophy and Christ though Christ divinity was hard to muster with the Athenians. There is an appeal to universal wisdom.
So too does the writer of first Peter by presenting Jesus as proclaiming salvation to the lost souls in Hades during the time between Good Friday and Easter morning. The writer tries to ease the suffering of those at his time saying "even if you do suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed." This week brings in the Holy Spirit. 1st Peter says "He was put to death in the flesh, but made alive in the spirit."
John’s Gospel tries to provide of meaning of the Holy Spirit. The readings are shifting from Jesus physical presence to the presence of the Holy Spirit which will help the disciples carry on his work. The Holy Spirit is called the advocate, communicating the truth and to be a consistent presence with both the community and the disciple. This Spirit will abide in us as Jesus abides in us.
The Spirit is sent in Jesus’ name and reminds us of what he taught. The spirit is the advocate – one who will support, help and intercede for them. The Paraclete (counselor, helper) comes to speak to us for Jesus. Jesus emphasizes the intimate unity of Jesus, God, the Spirit, and the believer.