Can you handle the truth?

 



Wednesday of the 6th week of Eastertide 


Acts 17:15,​22-18:1

Psalm 148:1-2,11-14

John 16:12-15


In a thrilling moment from the iconic film *A Few Good Men*, Colonel Jessup delivers a powerful line in response to Lieutenant Daniel Kaffee’s probing question: “You want the truth?” With fiery intensity, Kaffee retorts, “You can’t handle the truth!” 


This week’s Mass readings from the Gospels bring us to an electrifying juncture in Jesus’ journey — the arrival of the Advocate, the Holy Spirit! Just after the Passover meal in the upper room, Jesus has one last chance to relay vital truths to his closest followers. Little do they know, their lives are on the brink of a dramatic upheaval.



As they sit together, they envision continuing their familiar path with Jesus — traveling, teaching, and spreading the message just as they have for the past three years. But everything is about to change! That very night, Jesus will be betrayed, arrested like a common criminal, brutally tried, and sentenced to the horrifying fate of the cross. He knows his disciples can’t fully grasp the gravity of what lies ahead until the Resurrection reveals the truth.


So, Jesus must arm them with words of reassurance — words they will cling to when darkness envelops them. He tells them about the coming of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, who will guide them through turmoil and uncertainty, ensuring they can indeed handle the Truth!


Just as in Jesus’ time, today the truth faces skepticism from all corners, even from those we turn to for guidance. Moments later, Jesus finds himself standing before Pilate, declaring boldly, “Everyone who belongs to the Truth listens to my voice.” Pilate, echoing the disbelief, simply asks, “What is truth?”



If we genuinely seek to uncover the truth, we must tune into the voice of Jesus! What does he reveal about our beliefs? How does he guide our actions? What does he teach us about the dignity of life? Who are we called to love and embrace? What insights does he provide about Love and Life?


Let us give thanks to God for blessing us with the Advocate, the Holy Spirit! As I reflect on my journey, both joyful and challenging, I am in awe of how the Holy Spirit has been a dynamic force in my life, illuminating the path during both triumphs and trials.



We are grateful for this incredible gift of the Holy Spirit, our Advocate and guide, who brings wisdom, comfort, and unconditional love into our lives. Embrace his welcome, and his friendship, and let him challenge you, support you, and inspire you. He has become my closest companion without him I can't write and I would not act right— may He fill your life with his magnificence, too!

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