Prayer: Come, Jesus, help me to know and see the Father.
Imagination Picture Jesus teaching at the Last Supper
Context: In this text, Jesus describes two different periods –the time before the resurrection (when the disciples do not really know Jesus)
and the time after he rose (when they did know him).
Philip’s question allows Jesus to expand upon what he has just said.
Gospel Text (Read slowly, possibly aloud.)
Jesus said, “If you had known me, then you would also have known my Father. From now on, you do know him and you have seen him. Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us.”
Jesus said, “Have I been with you so long a time and still you do not know me?
Philip, he who sees me, sees the Father also. How can you say, ‘Show us the Father’? Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and the Father is in me?”
Thoughts (Read all. Ponder the ones that attract you.)
- Jesus expands his gift. The disciples will know and see the Father.
- Growing excited, Philip blurts out the unthinkable request, “Show us the Father” (whom none have ever seen).
- Jesus is disappointed. The apostles have already experienced the Father when they see Jesus.
- This extraordinary blessing began when Mary became the Mother of God.
- Philip must do one thing, believe that Jesus is in the Father and the Father is in Jesus.
Affections. (When one touches your heart, use your own words.)
- Jesus, You are the Father’s only son.
- When I speak to you, I speak also to the Father.
- O Jesus, how long you have been with me.
- Yet, I still do not understand. You and the Father are one.
- When I see you, Jesus, I see the Father. When I am close to you, Jesus, I am close to the Father.
- O Jesus, you and the Father cannot be separated. The Holy Spirit of love binds you together.
Resolutions (Possibly you might want to make your own.)
- I will spend this day in Jesus’ presence.
- During the day, I will say, “Let me see you, Jesus.”
Thought for the Day (To recall your meditation)
You must believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me.