John 14:23-29

This Sunday, May 22, is the sixth Sunday in the season of Easter. Our Scripture reading is John 14:23-29. This passage is part of a long speech by Jesus, during the Last Supper. The speech begins at John 13:31 and ends at 17:26. It helps to read the whole speech.

Here are questions for reflection that we will also discuss together in worship this Sunday:

John 14:23 has three important actions: “keep”, “love”, and “make our home”. How might you “keep my [Jesus’] word”? What can you do to grow in love with Jesus? What does it suggest to you that Jesus “and my Father will love them and make our home with them”?

The Holy Spirit teaches us, and helps us remember (John 14:26). How might you prepare to be a diligent student of the Holy Spirit’s teaching? Every Sunday, at Communion, we hear the words of Jesus, “This do in remembrance of me” (see Luke 22:19). What kind of remembering does this refer to, and how can the Holy Spirit help us remember?

The peace Jesus offers seems to be a blessing for times of grieving (John 14:27-29). What grieving among the disciples did Jesus anticipate? How might your access Jesus’ peace in your own times of grief?