Sixth Sunday of Easter

Sixth Sunday of Easter - May 25th, 2025

Jesus said to Judas (not Iscariot), "Those who love me will keep my word, and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them. Whoever does not love me does not keep my words; and the word that you hear is not mine, but is from the Father who sent me. "I have said these things to you while I am still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. You heard me say to you, `I am going away, and I am coming to you.' If you loved me, you would rejoice that I am going to the Father, because the Father is greater than I. And now I have told you this before it occurs, so that when it does occur, you may believe." John 14:23-29

Jesus speaks directly to his disciples about keeping his word and leaves them with the gift of his peace. He regularly spoke love, peace, compassion and forgiveness. He often condemned the greed, manipulation and abuse of the religious leadership. He spoke often of loving the Lord and our neighbors as ourselves. And he promised not only to give us his peace but is with us and will make a home with us. How is that his followers today often forget these simple directions? We are no different than those first century followers. We prize our comfort and reputation over love, compassion and peace.

                            A Litany for the Sixth Sunday of Easter

Wondrous Creator, you hung the stars

you delight us with great natural beauty

and always call us your beloved children.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word.

We destroy the beauty and peace given

by our laziness, selfishness and pride

and pollute our relationship with our home.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word.

You have blessed us with so much abundance 

and we hoard it like those who have starved.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word.

We keep the bounty from those in great need

and blame it on balancing the bottom line.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word.

Yet despite our selfish behavior and greed

you still promise to make your home with us.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word.

Give us the strength and humility today

so we might live your eternal word of love.

Lord Jesus, make us humble so we might live and keep your word. Amen.