St. Mary's Church Elizabeth, IL

3/29

"You did not choose me but I chose you."

                                                           John 15:16

Read John, chapter 15, verses 12 to 17

     The greatest figure of the Old Testament, Moses, was privileged to speak to God as a "friend" (Exodus 33:11), a relationsip that seemed unattainable to the average Israelite.  Yet Jesus tells his followers that they are no longer "servants," but they are his 'friends" (verse 15).  And like a true friend, Jesus shares the best of himself with his diciples.  He lays down his life for them (verse 13) and he offers us the key to his Father's house with all its riches (verses 15-16).

     These treasures are not something that we have earned or even asked for.  They are Jesus' gift to us:  "You did not choose me but I chose you" (verse 16).  The relationship of servant and master is based on obligation and earned privileges, while the relationship of friends is rooted in freedom and generosity.  As friends of Jesus we need only ask for what we need:  "The Father will give you whatever you ask in my name" (verse 16).  The Father's love that we experience in Jesus gives us the freedom and the motivation we need to 'bear fruit that will last" and to "love one another."

     This type of relationship with God is not viewed favorably by those who trust only in power, control, and coercion.  In fact, "the world" of these lovers of power will hate the friends of Jesus who "do not belong to the world" (verse 19).  The way of the world, which holds that domination and control are the way to happiness, is directly opposed to the way of loving service done in freedom.  In reponse to to this hatred, we need the Advocate, "the Spirit of truth who comes from the Father" (verse 26), to assure us of the trustworthiness of our cause.

For Reflection:  What negative responses have I received because I am identified as a friend of Jesus?  What are the treasures of the Father's house given to me through Jesus?

Prayer Starter: Son fo the Father, give me your Spirit fo truth to give me confidence in my friendship with you.  Thank you for the riches you offer me as your friend and help me to respond to your love by the quality of my life.

Fr. Joachim