Johannine Hours - John 15,11-13 - June 1995



[The "Johannine hours" are meant as a way of seeking God in silence
and prayer in the midst of our daily life. During the course of a day,
take a moment to read the Bible passage with the short commentary and
to reflect on the questions which follow. Afterwards, a small group
people can meet to share what they have discovered and perhaps for a
time of prayer.] 

Jesus says these words in some of the last moments that he will have
together with his disciples, on the eve of his passion. When he is
about to face public humiliation, official condemnation, the desertion
of his disciples and suffering, then, as it could seem that violence
and fear have overwhelmed everything, Jesus sees a joy. 

He does not want to communicate instructions or know-how, but to
ensure that his own joy will continually spring afresh in his friends.
His whole effort is directed to uncovering that wellspring deep within
them, so that the coming storm will not be able to destroy their joy.
His joy is not the "satisfaction" of one who has made it, but rather
the foundation of his life, his intimate motivation from the start of
his mission. "All my joy 'favour' is in you" are words that Jesus
hears at his baptism. To be, among human beings, his Father's
happiness has sustained his mission. 

By so solemnly delivering his "commandment" to his friends, Jesus
lends all his authority to his words, distilling the very meaning of
his existence. Jesus makes of his disciples leaders and bearers who
are sent out. He places in them a wellspring where the enthusiasm of
their life will be renewed. By giving what lies at the source of his
own commitment, Jesus makes it possible for them to give everything.
To give their lives, day by day, letting Jesus' life grow within them.

How can we remain close to the wellspring of Christ's joy? For whom
can we live in happiness and bear witness to a joy? 

How can I give my life at every moment - when my life is so imperfect
and I don't always see clearly? 



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file: /pub/resources/text/taize/johannine: jh9506.txt