June 1, 2019

…ask and you will receive, so that your joy will be complete. (John 16:23-28)

What John describes for us in today’s Gospel is not a genie in a bottle granting us three wishes. Ask: He is not recommending that we compile a laundry list of things we need. Receive: He is not advising that we sit back and wait for the “stuff” we ordered.

So what is he saying?

Ask: Pray. Invite Jesus to be a part of your life. Live a life worthy of His presence. Acknowledge that He is in control, not you.

Receive: His presence in your life. Peace of mind.

Given this interpretation, John’s claim that your joy will be complete certainly makes sense.