The Power of Intercession: A Reflection for the Seventh Sunday of Easter
As we journey through the liturgical calendar, we find ourselves on the threshold of Pentecost, the culmination of the Easter season. This Seventh Sunday of Easter invites us to reflect deeply on the transformative power of intercession in our lives.
The readings for this Sunday tells us the story of Jesus' departure and the promise (and necessity) of the Holy Spirit. In the first reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 1:15-17, 20a, 20c-26), we witness the early Christian community grappling with the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot. However, they don't despair but turn to prayer and discernment, seeking guidance from the Holy Spirit to choose a replacement. This narrative underscores the importance of communal discernment and the reliance on God's wisdom in making significant decisions.
In the Gospel passage (John 17:11b-19), we find Jesus in the midst of His farewell to His disciples and praying for them. His prayer is not only for their immediate protection but also for their sanctification and unity. Jesus entrusts them to the Father's care, acknowledging that though they are in the world, they are not of the world. This prayer echoes through the ages, reminding us of Jesus' continuous intercession on our behalf before the Father.
The significance of intercession cannot be overstated in our spiritual journey. It is a profound expression of love and solidarity with one another. When we intercede for others, we participate in Christ's priestly ministry, offering prayers and sacrifices for the salvation and well-being of all. Through intercession, we imitate Jesus, who ever lives to intercede for us (Hebrews 7:25).
As we reflect on the readings for this Sunday, let’s be mindful of the power of intercession in our lives:
Communal Discernment: Just as the early Christian community sought the guidance of the Holy Spirit in selecting a replacement for Judas, we are called to discern important decisions in our lives within the context of prayer and community.
Prayer for Unity and Sanctification: Jesus' prayer for His disciples underscores the importance of praying for one another's spiritual growth and unity in the body of Christ. Let us lift each other up in prayer, asking for the grace to be sanctified and united in Christ.
Living as Intercessors: May we embrace our call to be intercessors, offering prayers not only for ourselves but for the needs of the world. Through our intercession, may God's kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
As we prepare to celebrate Pentecost, let us open our hearts to the transforming power of intercession. Let us heed Jesus' call to unity and sanctification, knowing that he continually intercedes for us before the Father. May we, in turn, become vessels of His grace, offering prayers of intercession for the salvation and renewal of all creation.
