Jesus Reveals the Father

"If you know Me, 

then you will also 

know My Father. 

From now on 

you do know Him 

and have seen Him." 

(John 14:7)

If you know me, then you shall see, 

The Father's love, His mystery. 

Through gentle words and works divine, 

His boundless grace in me does shine.

Philip asked, "Lord, show the way, 

Reveal the Father clear today." 

Yet Jesus spoke with patient tone, 

"If you've seen me, you're not alone."

The works I do, they are His hand, 

A love so deep, a truth so grand. 

For those who trust, great things unfold, 

With faith so strong, with hearts so bold.

And every prayer in earnest made, 

Shall find its place, shall not fade. 

For in His name, hope shall arise, 

To glorify the One Most High.

Lord Jesus, 

You have shown us the Father, you are the way, the truth, and the life. In You, we see the love of God, In Your words, we hear His voice, In Your works, we witness His power.

Strengthen our faith, O Lord, that we may trust in your presence, even when doubt clouds our hearts. Help us to believe that through You, we can do great things, not for our glory, but for yours.

Teach us to pray in Your name, with hearts aligned to your will, that whatever we ask may glorify the Father. Let our lives reflect Your light, so that others may know You through us.

May we walk in confidence, knowing you are in the Father, and the Father is in you. Draw us deeper intoyYour love and make us one with You forever.

Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Book of Glory

THE LAST SUPPER DISCOURSES

John 14:7-14

Gospel Acclamation

If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples and you will know the truth, says the Lord. 

Gospel | John 14:7-14

7 Jesus said to his disciples: “If you know me, then you will also know my Father. From now on you do know him and have seen him.” 8 Philip said to Jesus, “Master, show us the Father, and that will be enough for us.” 9 Jesus said to him, “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? 10 Do you not believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words that I speak to you I do not speak on my own. The Father who dwells in me is doing his works. 11 Believe me that I am in the Father and the Father is in me, or else, believe because of the works themselves. 12 Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes in me will do the works that I do, and will do greater ones than these, because I am going to the Father. 13 And whatever you ask in my name, I will do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son. 14 If you ask anything of me in my name, I will do it.”

Background

John 14:7-14 is part of Jesus' farewell discourse, spoken to His disciples during the Last Supper. In this passage, Jesus emphasizes His unity with the Father, reassuring His followers that knowing Him means knowing God. He also promises that those who believe in Him will do great works and that prayers made in His name will be answered.

Historical Context

Setting: This conversation takes place in the upper room in Jerusalem, just before Jesus' crucifixion. The disciples are troubled by His impending departure.

Jewish Expectations: Many Jews expected a political Messiah, but Jesus presents Himself as the way to the Father, focusing on spiritual salvation rather than earthly power.

Roman Influence: The Roman occupation of Judea created tension, and Jesus' teachings challenged both religious and political authorities.

Theological Significance: Jesus affirms His divine nature, stating that He and the Father are one. This was a radical claim, reinforcing His role as the mediator between God and humanity.

Key Themes

Jesus as the Revelation of God: He tells Philip, "Whoever has seen me has seen the Father" (John 14:9), highlighting His divine identity.

Faith and Works: Jesus assures His disciples that those who believe in Him will continue His mission and perform great deeds.

Power of Prayer: He promises that prayers made in His name will be answered, reinforcing the importance of faith and trust in God.

Learning Lessons

Knowing Jesus Means Knowing God : Jesus tells His disciples, “If you know me, then you will also know my Father” (John 14:7). This teaches us that understanding Jesus—His teachings, His love, and His actions—leads us to a deeper relationship with God.

Faith Overcomes Doubt : Philip asks Jesus to show them the Father, but Jesus responds, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father” (John 14:9). This reminds us that faith is about trusting in what has already been revealed rather than constantly seeking proof.

The Power of Belief: Jesus assures His followers that those who believe in Him will do great works—even greater than His own (John 14:12). This encourages us to live boldly, knowing that faith empowers us to make a meaningful impact.

Prayer in Jesus’ Name: Jesus promises that whatever is asked in His name will be granted (John 14:13-14). This highlights the importance of praying with faith and aligning our requests with God’s will.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

I Am

 

Jesus said to him, 

“I am the way 

and the truth 

and the life. 

No one comes 

to the Father 

except through me.” 

(John 14:6)

Jesus is the path to God. By following His teachings and example, we can find our way to a meaningful and fulfilling relationship with God. He embodies the ultimate truth. His words and actions reveal the nature of God and the principles by which we should live our lives. He offers eternal life. Through Him, we can experience a life that is abundant and everlasting, both now and in the hereafter.

This verse emphasizes that Jesus is the only way to the Father. It calls us to recognize the unique role of Jesus in our spiritual journey and to place our faith in Him. These lessons encourage us to follow Jesus, embrace His truth, and seek the life He offers. 

I am the way, the truth, the life, 

In every joy, in every strife. 

I am the light that guides your path, 

The gentle whisper, the righteous wrath.

I am the vine, you are the branches, 

In me, your soul finds second chances. 

I am the shepherd, you are my sheep, 

In my embrace, your heart will keep.

I am the door, the open gate, 

Through me, you'll find your destined fate. 

I am the bread, the living wine, 

In me, your spirit will align.

I am the Alpha and the Omega, 

The beginning and the end, 

In every moment, I am your friend.

I am the healer, the great I Am,

In every prayer, in every psalm. 

I am the love that never ends, 

In me, your broken heart mends.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. You are the way, the truth, and the life. In You, we find our path, our purpose, and our peace. We thank You for being our guide, our light, and our salvation.

Lord, help us to follow Your way, to embrace Your truth, and to live in Your life. Strengthen our faith and fill us with Your love, so that we may reflect Your grace in all we do. May we always seek Your presence and trust in Your divine plan.

In times of doubt, remind us that You are the vine, and we are the branches. In times of fear, remind us that You are the good shepherd, and we are Your flock. In times of need, remind us that You are the bread of life, and we are nourished by Your word.

Blessed be Your holy name, now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Book of Glory

THE LAST SUPPER DISCOURSES

John 14:1-14

Gospel Acclamation

This is the will of my Father, says the Lord, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life. 

Gospel | John 14:1-6 (or John 6:37-40)

1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. 4 Where I am going you know the way.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

November 02, 2024, Saturday, 3:02 AM

Love One Another

"This is my commandment: 

love one another 

as I love you. 

No one has greater 

love than this, 

to lay down one’s life 

for one’s friends. 

You are my friends 

if you do what I command you. 

(John 15:12-14)

Abiding in God’s love brings true joy that is complete. Our relationship with God should be one of constant connection and dependence. Showing love to others reflects the love that God has shown us. An intimate love relationship that is deep, personal, and sacrificial even to the point of laying down His own life for His friends. Let us always be mindful of God’s sovereignty and His purpose for our lives.

In God's love we abide, in joy we reside,

Complete and whole, in His love we confide.

A relationship of dependence, a connection so deep,

In His love we are grounded, His promises we keep.

Showing love to others, a reflection of His grace,

In every heart, in every face.

A love so intimate, so deep, so personal,

Sacrificial and profound, beyond the usual.

Laying down His life, for His friends so dear,

In His love, we find no fear.

Mindful of His sovereignty, His purpose, His plan,

In His grand design, we see the span.

So let us remember, in our lives each day,

In His love we abide, in His purpose we stay.

Dear Lord Jesus,

In Your love we abide, a joy so complete, a relationship with You, so wonderfully sweet. Constant and dependent, in Your love we rest, reflecting Your love to others, we strive to do our best.

An intimate relationship, deep and personal, we share, Your sacrificial love, beyond compare. You laid down Your life, for friends so dear, in Your love, we find no fear.

Mindful of Your sovereignty, Your purpose, Your plan, in every moment, in every span. Help us to remember, in our lives each day, in Your love we abide, in Your purpose we stay.

In Your name we pray,

Amen.

Background and Learning Lessons

John 15:9-17 is a significant passage in the Bible. Here’s some background information:

This passage is part of a long discourse by Jesus to His disciples during the Last Supper. It is part of the Farewell Discourse of Jesus, where He prepares His disciples for His departure.

In this passage, Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and its branches to explain the relationship between Himself (the true vine), His disciples (the branches), and His Father (the vineyard keeper).

He emphasizes the necessity of abiding in Him to bear fruit. The concept of “abiding” is a key theme in this passage, symbolizing the intimate and enduring relationship between Jesus and His followers.

From verses 9-17, Jesus emphasizes the importance of love, both toward Himself and others. Love is given center stage, interpreting the whole of the passage on vine and branches in terms of love.

The passage can be divided into two major sections, the first (9-12) focusing on the abiding relationship of love that binds Father, Son and disciples into one, the second (13-17) focusing on the empowering love of the Son by which he laid down his life for his "friends".

This passage provides a glimpse into the deep love that Jesus has for His disciples and the importance of abiding in that love. It also underscores the sacrificial nature of Jesus’ love, as He lays down His life for His friends.

The passage John 15:9-17 in the Bible offers several important lessons:

Abiding in Love: Jesus emphasizes the importance of abiding in His love. This teaches us that our relationship with God should be one of constant connection and dependence.

Love One Another: Jesus commands His disciples to love one another as He has loved them. This teaches us the importance of showing love to others, reflecting the love that God has shown us.

Sacrificial Love: Jesus speaks of the greatest love being to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. This foreshadows His own sacrificial death on the cross, teaching us about the depth of God’s love for us.

Joy in Love: Jesus speaks of His joy remaining in us and our joy being complete. This teaches us that abiding in God’s love brings true joy.

Friendship with God: Jesus calls His disciples not servants, but friends, indicating a deep, personal relationship. This teaches us about the intimate relationship we can have with God.

Chosen and Appointed by God: Jesus tells His disciples that they did not choose Him, but He chose them. This teaches us about God’s sovereignty and His purpose for our lives.

These lessons remind us to abide in God’s love, love one another, understand the sacrificial nature of God’s love, find joy in His love, cultivate an intimate relationship with Him, and recognize His sovereignty in our lives. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

May 14, 2024, 11:22 AM

Shepherd's Voice

 

My sheep hear my voice; 

I know them, 

and they follow me. 

I give them eternal life, 

and they shall never perish. 

No one can take them 

out of my hand. 

(John 10:27-28)

Beneath the porch in winter’s chill, 

The temple stood so grand and still. 

The Feast of Lights was shining bright, 

Yet hearts were veiled in shadowed night.

The shepherd walked with love untold, 

His words like whispers, strong yet bold. 

“My sheep shall hear, they know my call, 

No hand shall take them, none at all.”

The doubters came with hearts of stone, 

Demanding truth to be made known. 

"If you are Christ, then tell us clear!" 

But faith was blind, though He stood near.

The shepherd spoke, His voice was light, 

A beacon burning through the night. 

"I and the Father—one are we, 

In love, in power, eternally."

Yet stones were raised, rejection burned, 

The truth denied, belief was spurned. 

But still He calls, so soft and sweet, 

His sheep will follow, hear, and meet.

No thief shall steal, no storm shall break, 

The love He gives none shall forsake. 

For in His hands, safe shall we be, 

Held forever—eternally.

Lord Jesus, our Good Shepherd, 

You walk among us, calling us by name. Help us to hear Your voice above the noise of the world, and to follow You with unwavering faith. You have promised that none shall snatch us from Your hand, that in You, we find eternal security. Teach us to trust in Your love, to rest in Your presence, and to walk in Your light.

In moments of doubt, strengthen our faith. When fear grips our hearts, remind us of Your promise. You and the Father are one—unchanging, almighty, and full of mercy. May Your truth dwell deep within us, guiding our steps, renewing our hearts, and filling us with peace.

We surrender ourselves to You, Lord, knowing that in Your embrace, we are safe forever. 

Amen.

Pericope

II: The Book of Signs

FEAST OF THE DEDICATION

John 10:22-30

Gospel Acclamation

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.  

Gospel | John 10:22-30

22 The feast of the Dedication was then taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. 23 And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. 26 But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. 27 My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.” 

Historical Context and Background:

John 10:22-30 takes place during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem. This festival commemorates the rededication of the Jewish temple after its desecration by Antiochus Epiphanes in 164 B.C. 

Jesus is walking in Solomon’s Porch, a covered walkway in the temple, when Jewish leaders approach him and demand that he state plainly whether he is the Messiah.

This passage is part of a broader theme of conflict and controversy in Jesus’ ministry. The Jewish leaders are divided—some accuse Jesus of being demon-possessed, while others recognize his miraculous works. Jesus responds by affirming that his works testify to his identity, but he also highlights that only his true followers—his "sheep"—recognize his voice and receive eternal life. He then makes a profound statement: "I and the Father are one", which further escalates tensions with the religious authorities.

The historical backdrop of this passage is significant because Hanukkah symbolizes deliverance and restoration, themes that align with Jesus’ mission. His claim to unity with the Father challenges the Jewish leaders' expectations of the Messiah and intensifies their opposition to him. This moment sets the stage for further rejection and ultimately leads to attempts to stone him.

Learning Lessons:

John 10:22-30 offers profound lessons about faith, security, and our relationship with Jesus. Here are some key takeaways:

Jesus' Identity is Clear – The Jewish leaders demand that Jesus tell them plainly if He is the Messiah. However, Jesus points out that His works already testify to His identity. This teaches us that sometimes, the truth is evident, but people refuse to accept it.

The Importance of Listening to Jesus – Jesus says, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.” This reminds us that true believers recognize and follow Jesus. It challenges us to be attentive to His guidance in our lives.

Eternal Security in Christ – Jesus promises that His sheep will never perish and that no one can snatch them from His hand. This is a powerful assurance of salvation and God’s unwavering protection.

Unity Between Jesus and the Father – Jesus declares, “I and the Father are one.” This statement affirms His divine nature and unity with God, reinforcing the Christian belief in the Trinity.

Faith vs. Doubt – The Jewish leaders struggle to believe in Jesus despite witnessing His miracles. This highlights the difference between those who have faith and those who reject the truth.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Life in Abundance

 

" I came so that 

they might have life 

and have it 

more abundantly.” 

(John 10:10)

Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows us and desires to have an intimate relationship with us. He is the only way to salvation and a relationship with God. We are His sheep who listens to His voice (through His Word and the Holy Spirit) and following His guidance in our lives. 

True fulfillment and abundant life can only be found in a relationship with Jesus. Let us cultivate an intimate relationship with Jesus, recognize and follow His guidance, appreciate the protection we have in Him, and seek the abundant life that He offers.

In the vast expanse of His love so deep,

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, His flock does keep.

He knows us each, by name, by heart,

Desires an intimate relationship, never to part.

He is the way, the truth, the life,

The only path amid worldly strife.

To salvation and God, He is the door,

His love and grace, forevermore.

We are His sheep, in His tender care,

Listening to His voice, in silence, in prayer.

Through His Word, and the Spirit's guide,

In His footsteps, we abide.

True fulfillment, abundant life, and more,

Are found in Jesus, whom we adore.

In relationship with Him, we find our worth,

A taste of heaven, here on earth.

Let us cultivate this bond so dear,

With Jesus, our Shepherd, ever near.

Recognize His guidance, follow His lead,

In His green pastures, He meets every need.

Appreciate the protection, in His fold,

His love, a treasure, more precious than gold.

Seek the abundant life He offers to all,

In His presence, stand tall.

So let this be our heartfelt song,

To Jesus, our Good Shepherd, we belong.

In His love, His care, His light,

We find our joy, our strength, our might.

Dear Lord Jesus,

You are the Good Shepherd who knows us intimately. You desire to have a deep, personal relationship with us. We are grateful for Your love that reaches out to us, acknowledging our individuality and valuing our uniqueness.

You are the only way to salvation and a relationship with God. We acknowledge that there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. We confess our need for You and humbly accept the salvation You offer.

We are Your sheep, and we strive to listen to Your voice. Through Your Word and the Holy Spirit, You guide us in our daily lives. Help us to discern Your voice amidst the noise of the world and to follow Your guidance faithfully.

In You, we find true fulfillment and abundant life. You came that we may have life, and have it to the full. Help us to seek satisfaction not in the fleeting pleasures of the world, but in the eternal joy that comes from a relationship with You.

We commit to cultivating an intimate relationship with You, to spending time in Your presence, and to seeking You with all our hearts. We pray for the grace to recognize and follow Your guidance in our lives.

We appreciate the protection we have in You. As our Good Shepherd, You watch over us, protect us from harm, and provide for our needs. Help us to rest in Your protection and provision, trusting that You will take care of us.

Finally, we seek the abundant life that You offer. We pray that we may experience the fullness of life in You – a life marked by Your love, joy, peace, and hope.

In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE GOOD SHEPHERD

John 10:1-21

Gospel Acclamation

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.

Gospel | John 10:1-10

1 Jesus said: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever does not enter a sheepfold through the gate but climbs over elsewhere is a thief and a robber. 2 But whoever enters through the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3 The gatekeeper opens it for him, and the sheep hear his voice, as he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When he has driven out all his own, he walks ahead of them, and the sheep follow him, because they recognize his voice. 5 But they will not follow a stranger; they will run away from him, because they do not recognize the voice of strangers.” 6 Although Jesus used this figure of speech, they did not realize what he was trying to tell them. 7 So Jesus said again, “Amen, amen, I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8 All who came before me are thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. 9 I am the gate. Whoever enters through me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10 A thief comes only to steal and slaughter and destroy; I came so that they might have life and have it more abundantly.”

Background

John 10:1-10 is a crucial passage in the Gospel of John that presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd, who offers protection and guidance to his followers. This passage is part of a larger conversation that Jesus had with the Pharisees, who were religious leaders in Israel at the time.

In this passage, Jesus uses the metaphor of the Good Shepherd to illustrate his role as a spiritual leader and caretaker for his followers. The passage begins with Jesus pointing out that those who try to enter the sheep pen (representing the community of believers) through illegitimate means are thieves and robbers. He establishes himself as the true shepherd who enters by the gate and whose voice the sheep recognize and follow.

When the Pharisees fail to understand his metaphor, Jesus further clarifies his role as the gate. By declaring that he is the gate, Jesus emphasizes that he is the only way to salvation and a relationship with God. He contrasts himself with the thief, whose sole purpose is to steal, kill, and destroy, and explains that his own mission is to give life to the full.

This passage underscores the essence of Christianity—love, understanding, and unity in Christ, and highlights the inclusive spirit and charity among believers. It signifies the rapid growth of the early church, transcending cultural and ethnic boundaries.

Learning Lessons:

John 10:1-10 offers several important spiritual lessons:

Jesus as the Good Shepherd: Jesus is the Good Shepherd who knows His sheep and whose sheep know Him. This teaches us about the intimate relationship that Jesus desires to have with His followers.

Jesus as the Gate: Jesus declares Himself to be the gate for the sheep, emphasizing that He is the only way to salvation and a relationship with God. This underscores the exclusivity of salvation through Jesus Christ.

Listening to Jesus’ Voice: The sheep listen to the voice of the shepherd and follow him. This illustrates the importance of recognizing Jesus’ voice (through His Word and the Holy Spirit) and following His guidance in our lives.

Protection from Harm: Jesus protects His sheep from thieves and robbers who come to steal, kill, and destroy. This reminds us of the spiritual protection that we have in Jesus.

Abundant Life in Jesus: Jesus came to give life, and life to the full. This teaches us that true fulfillment and abundant life can only be found in a relationship with Jesus.

In summary, these verses encourage us to cultivate an intimate relationship with Jesus, recognize and follow His guidance, appreciate the protection we have in Him, and seek the abundant life that He offers.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Shepherd’s Voice

 

My sheep hear my voice; 

I know them, 

and they follow me. 

I give them eternal life, 

and they shall never perish. 

No one can take them 

out of my hand. 

(John 10:27-28)

My Shepherd calls—I hear His sound, 

A voice so gentle, yet so profound. 

Through valleys deep, o'er mountains steep, 

His words my soul will always keep.

No thief can steal, no storm can shake, 

The love He gives none can forsake. 

His hand is strong, His promise true, 

Through darkest night, He leads me through.

In Him I rest, in Him I stay, 

No fear nor doubt shall turn away. 

For He and Father walk as one, 

Eternal hope through Christ, the Son.

Lord Jesus, my Shepherd and Guide, I hear Your voice calling me in love. You know me by name, and in Your presence, I find peace.

Hold me close, O Lord, for in Your hands, I am secure. No power on earth, no force unseen, can steal me away from Your embrace. 

You and the Father are one— Your love is eternal, Your promises true. Help me to trust, help me to follow, That I may walk in Your light forever.

Amen.

Historical Context

John 10:27-30 is part of Jesus' discourse on being the Good Shepherd. Historically, this passage is set within the broader context of Jesus' ministry in first-century Judea, where He often spoke in metaphors familiar to His audience. 

Shepherding was a common occupation, and the imagery of sheep and shepherds was deeply embedded in Jewish tradition, often symbolizing leadership and divine care.

At the time, Jesus was addressing Jewish leaders who were skeptical of His claims. The passage occurs during the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah) in Jerusalem, a festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple after its desecration by foreign rulers. 

The Feast of the Dedication of the Temple, known as “Hanukkah” or Festival of Lights, is an eight-day winter festival that celebrates the re-blessing of the Temple and its altar after the Seleucid King Antiochus Epiphanes profaned them with pagan sacrifices during the time of the Maccabees.

It is said that when the Jews entered the Temple to re-dedicate it to the sole worship of God, they found only one jug of olive oil that remained sealed and uncontaminated by the pagan Seleucids. This oil was used to light the menorah, the Temple’s candelabrum that remained lighted for eight days. This gave ample time to consecrate more oil for use at the Temple.

This setting is significant because it highlights themes of spiritual authority and divine protection, which Jesus emphasizes by declaring that His followers—His "sheep"—recognize His voice and are secure in His care.

The phrase "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30) was particularly controversial, as it was understood by His audience as a claim to divinity, leading to strong opposition from religious leaders. This passage underscores Jesus' role as the Messianic Shepherd, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies about God's care for His people.

Prayer is your lifeline to God. Spend enough time in prayer and reading of Scriptures. This is the way you will hear God’s voice when He calls. It is important to set aside time for prayer every day.

Learning Lessons:

John 10:27-30 teaches profound lessons about faith, security, and our relationship with Jesus as the Good Shepherd. Here are some key takeaways:

Recognizing His Voice – Jesus says, "My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me." This highlights the importance of listening to God and discerning His guidance in our lives. It encourages believers to develop a close relationship with Him through prayer and scripture.

Eternal Security – Jesus assures His followers that "no one will snatch them out of my hand." This speaks to the unshakable security of those who trust in Him. It reminds us that God's love and protection are unwavering, even in difficult times.

Unity with the Father – Jesus declares, "I and the Father are one." This emphasizes His divine nature and unity with God, reinforcing the belief that following Jesus means being connected to the ultimate source of life and truth.

Faith in Action – Listening to Jesus is not enough; we must follow Him. This passage encourages believers to actively live out their faith, making choices that align with His teachings.

Trust and Obedience – Just as sheep trust their shepherd, we are called to trust Jesus completely. This means surrendering our fears and doubts, knowing that He leads us toward eternal life.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

FEAST OF THE DEDICATION

John 10:27-30

Gospel Acclamation

I am the good shepherd, says the Lord; I know my sheep, and mine know me.

Gospel | John 10:27-30

27 Jesus said: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.   28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Life in the Spirit

 

It is the spirit that gives life, 

while the flesh is of no avail. 

The words I have spoken 

to you are Spirit and life. 

(John 6:63)

The gift of Jesus is the life that underpins our human life. His words lead us into a quality of life which gives meaning, hope, and love in all we do. Nobody else can give what Jesus gives - a full meaning of life, seen in the example of His life. 

Our faith in Jesus often involves grappling with difficult and challenging teachings. We should show a deep commitment to Jesus despite not fully understanding everything He said, recognizing His divine identity and accepting Him as our personal Lord and Savior. 

Let us follow Jesus all the way until the very last breath we have as mortals. To follow Him means to sacrifice here on earth. To follow Him means to live with humility and service to everyone. To be happy even with little things and to glorify the name of the Lord our savior.

In the tapestry of life, so grand and so bright,

The gift of Jesus is our guiding light.

His words lead us on a journey, so true,

Giving meaning, hope, and love anew.

No one else can give what Jesus imparts,

A full meaning of life, touching all hearts.

Seen in His life, an example so clear,

His teachings, though challenging, we hold dear.

Our faith in Jesus, a beacon in the night,

Helps us grapple with teachings, so bright.

Despite not understanding all He has said,

We show deep commitment, by Him we are led.

Recognizing His divinity, accepting His grace,

We see Him as our Savior, in every place.

Until our last breath, to Him we stay true,

Following Jesus is what we are called to do.

To follow Him means to sacrifice, to give,

To live with humility, in His service we live.

Finding happiness in little things, in love so pure,

We glorify the Lord, forever secure.

Dear Lord Jesus,

In the quiet chambers of our hearts, we come before You. We recognize that following You is not a fleeting commitment but a lifelong choice—a daily surrender of our will to Yours.

Grant us persistence, O Savior. Just as an alcoholic in recovery cannot have just one drink, we acknowledge that our faith journey involves continuous abiding in You. Strengthen our resolve, for we long to remain rooted in Your love.

Teach us trust, Master. When doubts assail and storms rage, help us cling to Your promises. Our faith rests in You alone—the One who holds the keys to eternal life. In You, we find refuge, purpose, and hope.

May our lives be a testament to Your grace. As branches connected to the Vine, may we bear fruit that glorifies Your name. Let our marriages reflect the sacred bond between Christ and His Church—a love that transcends time and space.

Lord Jesus, we turn to You. You offer eternal life, and there’s no better place to abide. Transform us, mold us, and draw us closer each day. May our hearts echo the psalmist’s words: “I have set the Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken” (Psalm 16:8).

In Your precious name, we pray. Amen.

Background:

John 6:60-69 is a passage from the New Testament of the Bible, specifically from the Gospel of John. This passage is part of a larger discourse known as the “Bread of Life Discourse” which takes place after the miracle of the feeding of the five thousand.

In this passage, many of Jesus’ disciples find His teachings difficult to accept and understand, particularly His statement about eating His flesh and drinking His blood for eternal life. As a result, many of His disciples turn back and no longer follow Him.

Jesus then turns to His twelve apostles and asks if they also wish to leave. Simon Peter, speaking for the group, affirms their faith in Jesus, acknowledging that He has the words of eternal life and proclaiming their belief that Jesus is the Holy One of God.

This passage underscores several key themes:

The challenge of accepting Jesus’ teachings, especially when they go against conventional wisdom or understanding.

The importance of faith in overcoming doubts and difficulties.

The affirmation of Jesus as the source of eternal life and the Holy One of God.

This passage is a deep representation that people need faith to survive. It shows that while some practice their faith, there are also those who don’t. It also highlights the importance of making a personal commitment to Jesus, even when faced with hard teachings.

Learning Lessons:

John 6:60-69 offers several spiritual lessons:

Faith in Difficult Teachings: Jesus’ teachings, especially about eating His flesh and drinking His blood for eternal life, were hard for many disciples to accept. This passage teaches us that faith often involves grappling with difficult and challenging teachings.

The Importance of Commitment: When many disciples left Jesus because of His hard teachings, Peter chose to stay His response, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life,” shows a deep commitment to Jesus despite not fully understanding everything He said.

Recognizing Jesus as the Holy One of God: Peter’s confession that Jesus is the Holy One of God underscores the importance of recognizing Jesus’ divine identity and accepting Him as our personal Lord and Savior12.

The Value of Spiritual Life: The gift of Jesus is the life that underpins our human life. His words lead us into a quality of life which gives meaning, hope, and love in all we do. Nobody else can give what Jesus gives - a full meaning of life, seen in the example of His life.

Perseverance in Faith: This passage teaches us to follow Jesus all the way until the very last breath we have as mortals. To follow Him means to sacrifice here on earth. To follow Him means to live with humility and service to everyone. To be happy even with little things and to glorify the name of the Lord our savior.

These lessons remind us of the importance of faith, commitment, recognition of Jesus’ divinity, the value of spiritual life, and perseverance in our spiritual journey.

Pericope:

II: The Book of Signs

THE WORDS OF ETERNAL LIFE

John 6:60-71

Gospel Acclamation

Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of everlasting life.

Gospel | John 6:60-69

60 Many of the disciples of Jesus who were listening said, “This saying is hard; who can accept it?” 61 Since Jesus knew that his disciples were murmuring about this, he said to them, “Does this shock you? 62 What if you were to see the Son of Man ascending to where he was before? 63 It is the Spirit that gives life, while the flesh is of no avail. The words I have spoken to you are Spirit and life. 64 But there are some of you who do not believe.” Jesus knew from the beginning the ones who would not believe and the one who would betray him. 65 And he said, “For this reason I have told you that no one can come to me unless it is granted him by my Father.” 66 As a result of this, many of his disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer walked with him. 67 Jesus then said to the Twelve, “Do you also want to leave?” 68 Simon Peter answered him, “Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God.”

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot