Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter
In today’s gospel, as Jesus addresses the Father, He says, “I gave them your word.” This is a beautiful expression that is rich in meaning. Firstly, it reveals a truth about our words. They are something we give. Words are a gift. Each time we open our mouth, we may tend to do it for ourselves, to express our thoughts and feelings. This is very important. But our words can also be seen as a gift to the one who listens. With our words we can bless, comfort, and heal the other. Jesus does just that.
Secondly, “to give one’s word” is synonymous with “to promise something.” A promise, a fragile word, can help the one who receives it walk with greater trust towards a future still unknown. There is, of course, always the chance that the promise may prove to be false. But Jesus reassures his listeners as he talks to the Father and says, “Your word is truth.” He has given us the word of truth, that we might share his joy completely.
Let us thank God for the gift of his word and strive to always have our own words be gift and truth.