Greetings on this the Memorial of Saint Boniface, Bishop and Martyr
Readings: Acts 22:30; 23:6-11; Psalm 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11; John 17:20-26
Summary
In today’s sacred reading of the Gospel, we complete the High Priestly Prayer of Jesus.
Father, they are your gift to me (Jn 17:24a).
Gift implies something about the giver and the receiver. In this case, the gift is the entirely of the Father (person and possession – if you will). We know this because we exist in the Father. The inheritance of the Son is the Father himself whom which contains us the children.
I wish that where I am (I AM and where I am, both) they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world (Jn 17:24b).
Jesus continues the gift effect.
And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me (Jn 17:22-23).
Reflection
There are three loves in our life here on Earth that practically every one can relate to, either directly or by proximity.
- Parents.
- Spouse.
- Children.
In these loves comes the response of gift awareness. As we mature we begin to understand Jesus’ words more clearly. Spouses gift themselves and the children are living in the gift. Parent and child (we share in rotation, no?), are the evidence of gift and the depth of the gift imparts – self.
You, dear reader, are a gift to me. We know there is little separation between us except which we enforce. Rather we are children of the Creator first and foremost. The final answer of Jesus and his prayer – gift! We are gift!
Personal Reflection
Jesus gives me the divine hope of gift. Generationally, progeny, and the discovery of new love and the living in the giftedness of love. Here I must remember my Mom who taught me gift.
And the discovery of love.
And children…
You are a feather to me
My personal reflection: https://deacongerrypalermo.blog/2024/12/11/you-are-a-feather-to-me/
Reference
Sacred Readings Full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/060525.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry