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One Bread, One Body - Reflection for April 21, 2008

THAT'S A KEEPER

"He who does not love Me does not keep My words." –John 14:24

The Greek word, tereo, is used three times in today's Gospel passage. The New American Bible translates this rich word with three different meanings. "He who obeys the commandments he has from Me is the man who loves Me" (Jn 14:21). "Anyone who loves Me will be true to My word" (Jn 14:23). "He who does not love Me does not keep My words" (Jn 14:24).

Studying the meaning of this Greek word helps us to better understand how Jesus wants us to keep His words.

  1. We must guard His word within us, to prevent it from escaping our hearts. The same word is used several times in Acts referring to prison guards keeping their prisoners in their cell (Acts 12:5, 6; 16:23; 24:23; 25:4, 21). How many words from God have escaped from your memory this year?
  2. We are to observe His words, that is, fulfill and obey them. The word is used in the passage: "If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments" (Mt 19:17).
  3. We must keep, that is, preserve, His words. The word is used in the passages: "Make every effort to preserve the unity which has the Spirit as its origin" (Eph 4:3). "What you have done is keep the choice wine until now" (Jn 2:10).
  4. We must be faithful and true to His words (Jn 14:23), loyally holding fast to them no matter the risk.

"What matters is keeping God's commandments" (1 Cor 7:19).

PRAYER: Come, Holy Spirit! Remind us of all that Jesus has told us (Jn 14:26). Give us the love and grace to keep His words.
PROMISE: "He who loves Me will be loved by My Father. I too will love him and reveal Myself to him." –Jn 14:21
PRAISE: St. Anselm reminds us God "is Life itself, Light, Wisdom, Goodness, eternal blessings and blessed eternity."

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Acknowledgement

Reprinted with permission from Presentation Ministries, a lay association of the Catholic Church that focuses on evangelization and discipleship through Bible teaching, daily Mass, the charisms of the Holy Spirit, and Small Christian Community. Their ministries include:

· One Bread, One Body
· Daily Bread Radio Program
· Annual Bible Institute
· Discipleship Retreats
· Guadalupe Bible College