Jesus’ meal and time with his closest friends continue in this reading. Jesus gives a promise to us as his messengers, identifies his betrayer, issues his final command, and surprises Peter with some news. There’s a lot packed into these verses to reflect on.
Do you know who the disciple Jesus loved refers to? Many believe it to be the author of this gospel, John. Although Jesus loved all of his disciples, John is one of the inner circle who was witness to things the others didn’t see. John had to have felt the love of Jesus because of being chosen in that manner. I know I would. Imagine being singled out by Jesus to see his power at work!
John wasn’t the only messenger Jesus had. There was a room full of them, sharing a meal with him that night. Jesus would use all but one to spread his love to the world. I love the promise or declaration Jesus makes here: “I tell you the truth, anyone who welcomes my messenger is welcoming me, and anyone who welcomes me is welcoming the Father who sent me.” As messengers, we are called to make God known. When people welcome us to do that and accept our message, they are already welcoming Jesus and the Father. Our job is rewarded quickly.
But there was a traitor in the group that night. We’ve already heard how the devil entered Judas to betray Jesus. Here again, the devil enters to derail Judas from his role as a messenger. Judas would be following an entirely different path, and his actions would have consequences for him and blessings for those who believe.
Jesus was deeply troubled by all that was happening now that his time had come. I can’t imagine having advanced knowledge about such a horrible display of disloyalty and ultimate sacrifice. Only the devil could corrupt a believer so intently to act out of character. If Jesus’ life was to be sacrificed, God could not sin, and only the devil could get the wheels of injustice rolling.
In his distress, Jesus told Judas to leave and do what he must do. The disciples were probably still trying to process that Jesus said one of them would betray him, not to mention identifying the culprit directly in front of them. Can you imagine how their own trust had been shattered?
The table conversation that night had certainly taken an unexpected turn. First Judas, and then Jesus started talking about how he was going away again. He had this parting command: “So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” What a command! Jesus wants us to love each other in a way that sounds impossible. How can we possibly love each other like that? That had to be what the disciples were thinking, but their minds were reeling.
Jesus’ followers couldn’t fathom where Jesus might be going. Peter was emphatic that he would die for Jesus if he had to. What a bold statement! It was Peter’s turn next to be in the hot seat. Jesus called him out as well for what was going to happen. Peter was also going to act out of character, for obviously, he knew who Jesus was.
What strikes a chord with you in this reading? Take a moment to just sit with the fact that you are a messenger of Jesus, or that the devil is crafty and we can all fall prey to his schemes and lies, or that you are called to love as Jesus loves. What does your life look like because of Jesus in it?
Let’s pray. Lord Jesus, I never want to disappoint you by being deceived by the evil one’s schemes. Help me stand strong and wise to fight against it. I also need help being more loving toward all people, loving them as you would. Give me your eyes to see their hurts and their hearts. Give me the compassion and love I need, along with the boldness and opportunity. I live to be your child and your messenger. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
