Catholic Men’s Daily Devotional and Bible Study – Fifth Week of Easter – Tuesday – John 14:27-31a

The daily Gospel reading from the Mass for Tuesday of the Fifth Week of Easter is John 14:27-31a.

Christ continues His Farewell Discourse (John 13:31-16:33) in Jerusalem during Holy Week, preparing the Apostles for their mission after His departure. Having promised that the Father, Son and Holy Spirit will dwell in those who love Christ by keeping His commandments, Christ offers some final reassurance to the Apostles as the Passion approaches.

Knowing His revelations during the Last Supper have unsettled the Apostles, Christ gives them His peace, a peace that helps those who love Christ to have a supernatural calmness in the face of worldly torment; worldly peace comes and goes but the peace of Christ endures for those who love Him. Christ commands them to not be troubled or afraid; instead of being troubled, Christ gently admonishes the Apostles, telling them they should be overjoyed because He is going to the Father and will return for them.

Christ further assures the Apostles in preparation for His coming Passion. He reminds them that He has confirmed the reality of His coming Passion. No matter the appearances, Christ is making a free choice to die; the ruler of the world (Satan, Judas, his minions in the Jewish leadership and Pilate) has no power over Him. Christ confirms His coming death is what the Father commands and that the world will witness Christ’s love and obedience to the Father. He ends by calling the Apostles to action: “Rise, let us go hence.”

Awed by Jesus Christ – Son of God, Christ confirms the truth about the Father and the existence of Satan; Christ has the wisdom and power to grant supernatural peace. Divine Prophet, Christ proclaims supernatural realities and offers glimpses into the future. Divine King, Christ has complete dominion over all powers and freely chooses the Cross; He masterfully prepares the Apostles to endure His Passion and evangelize the world.

Being a Heroic Catholic Man

1) Christ is the model of the Perfect Man in facing turmoil; He prudently makes difficult decisions (His death!); He is courageous and steadfast; He prepares the Apostles to endure; He decisively leads the Apostles.

2) Christ confirms His absolute providence over Satan and the evil schemes of men. During Easter, place your confidence in Christ to Deliver Us from Evil (CCC 2850-2854) and pray for Christ’s constant help as in the Spiritual Combat.

3)  There are many sources of turmoil in a man’s life: restlessness, sinful desires, illness, broken relationships, financial hardship, lack of physical safety, etc. During Easter, return to the truth about Christ’s promise of peace (CCC 2305; 260) and seek Christ’s peace in the Eucharist, Confession and prayer.

Spiritual Practices – Include in Today’s Prayers

Sacred Mystery of Rosary – The Sorrowful Mysteries

Daily Devotion – The Guardian Angels

Virtue of the Day – Justice

Corporal Work of Mercy – To clothe the naked

Spiritual Work of Mercy – To counsel the doubtful