John 16
Since the very early stage of this pandemic, there have been many speculations on the cause of the virus. At the same time, there were also many predictions on the spread of the virus. And there have been many bits of advice on the prevention of infection. Now we already hear many words on the prospect of the pandemic. While we are staying home, we have been inundated with information and opinions. So much word! But I wonder how much of them are true.
Jesus tells us about the Spirit of truth in today’s gospel. The Holy Spirit teaches us the truth because he speaks what he learned from God the Father, who is the source of all truth. In God, there is no lie. Everything God plans becomes real. And God gives all to his Son. What the Holy Spirit testifies to are also from the Son, because the Father and the Son give all to each other and share all. And this perfect union is possible by the total obedience of the Son to his Father. As we see in the Passion and Resurrection, Christ Jesus submits his will to his Father. And there comes the reality of the resurrection. What Jesus spoke to his disciples becomes all true. And now Jesus promises us to send his Spirit of truth.
Often, I find myself saying to myself so uncharitable things. Often, I hide truth out of fear or for the sake of convenience. I am not speaking the truth! Why and how?
It’s because I do not completely submit my will to Jesus. When I put my will first, I start saying things selfish and uncharitable. When I consider my pride is more important, I hide the truth, because I cannot admit my humble existence.
During this pandemic, we can be easily swept by untruthful words – blames, accusations, complaints, deceptions, falsities, and so on. Let us see how sincerely we submit our minds and hearts to Jesus. Let us see how strongly we are united with Jesus. This difficult time desperately asks for the truth. We will be able to provide truth only when we are dwelling in the Lord.
