An Invitation from Jesus.
Is It even Possible?
This passage of John 14: 15-21 continues the passage we heard last Sunday from John 14: 1-12. Therefore, it may be helpful to review the setting of the conversation between Jesus and the disciples here.
This conversation takes place during the Last Supper. By this time, Jesus has told the disciples that one of them would betray him, and Judas has in fact left the group. Next, Jesus predicts that Peter would deny him three times. The rest of the disciples would also abandon Jesus. (For a more detailed discussion, see last week's commentary here)
To this very people, Jesus says, "If you love me, you will keep my commandments."
Our consolation is rooted first in the fact that Jesus knows us well, just as he knew his disciples then. He knows our weaknesses, shortcomings and even our sinfulness, yet he still gives us the commandment of love.
Secondly, it is not just a commandment by words. He lives that commandment of love and thus teaches us by example. At the beginning of the Last Supper, Jesus shows his love by washing the disciples' feet. His loves reaches completion when he gives his life for his beloved on the cross.
Thirdly, Jesus gives us help to live his commandment: " I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you always."
Finally, Jesus brings us into the union with the Father, who is love. "Whoever loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and reveal myself to him.” It is God who loves us, and who loves in us and through us.
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