Scripture:
Reflection:
The first thing that strikes me about our reading from the Acts of the Apostles is the mention of John the Baptist for the second time in as many chapters (18:25; 19:3). Perhaps John’s reach into the Mediterranean world was more extensive than was realized. From scripture, we know that his death took place early in Jesus’ ministry, and we are now somewhere in the early 50s A.D., his message in “preparing the way” still bears fruit.
In the text, Paul exhibits care and tenderness in his conversation with the disciples in Ephesus. Might he have noticed in the previous chapter how Priscilla and Aquila quietly instructed Apollos in the faith (18:26). Later, Paul would write the following passage in his letter to the Romans, “For those who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God” (8:24). It is fair to say that he recognized the work of the Spirit in these disciples and desired to encourage them in their faith. Trust in the Spirit of God was at the heart of Paul’s theology. A good lesson for those in ministry is to treat our people at work with love, wisdom, encouragement, and tenderness. However, he deals a little differently with those in the synagogue as he boldly debates using persuasive arguments (v.8), and we get the sense of his forceful character once again.
In our gospel, Jesus speaks to his disciples about this dynamic of confident trust in the Holy Spirit to guide them when he “returns to the Father.” Interestingly, his disciples now realize that he is from God. However, we know that while they understand who Jesus is, they don’t fully comprehend everything. Yet Jesus knows this and attempts to reassure them not to worry when confusion arrives. He reminded them where they would find their peace. In him!
And so it happened that following his crucifixion, they were all scattered. I wonder how long it took for them to remember Jesus’ tender words. So, too, with us, perhaps when life gets out of control, do we trust that Jesus is with us? Like the disciples, I can feel that with Jesus, I can get through anything. However, that is not always my reality when some unanticipated event invites me to live up to those beliefs and promises. It often feels more like a journey—a long journey—to trust.
Note his words in the final verse, “In the world you WILL have trouble” (16:33). He doesn’t say may or might; this is a declarative statement that reaches out to us these days. Because life WILL bring trouble otherwise, how would we learn the practice of staying close to Jesus? In these times, we don’t act out of our emotions; we act from our will—we make a choice.
Jesus, I trust in you.Jean Bowler is a retreatant at Mater Dolorosa Passionist Retreat Center in Sierra Madre, California, and a member of the Office of Mission Effectiveness Board of Holy Cross Province.