A deep revelation in critical moments
In the fifth Sunday of Easter, we find a text that, despite being brief, is loaded with meaning and originality. Jesus, at a crucial moment, anticipates the betrayal of Judas and presents a ‘new commandment’, which stands out for its unique structure, focused on the expression ‘I give you’. This choice of words is usually not respected by translators, which enriches its depth.
The context of betrayal
The glorification of the man’s son coincides with one of the most tense situations of his interaction with the twelve. In announcing that ‘one of you will betray me’, Jesus causes an immediate reaction to Simon Peter, who seeks clarifications of the beloved disciple. However, neither Jesus nor this disciple reveal the traitor, thus avoiding a possible violent conflict.
The comparison with the Jewish leaders
In his speech, Jesus equals his disciples with the Jewish leaders who intend to detain him, warning: ‘Where I go, you can not come.’ This statement highlights the distance between his message of love and the violence with which his opponents want to resolve conflicts.
The essence of love as a solution
The path that Jesus proposes is based on the love of neighbor, an instruction that, although not new, exemplifies through his actions. At a key moment, Jesus states: ‘In this, they will all know that you are my disciples, if you are estimated with you.’ This statement establishes a new standard for the community of believers.
A commandment that transcends
The new commandment that Jesus develops will be specified in an even more powerful message: ‘Love one another, as I have loved you.’ This mandate, which includes sacrifice on the other, emphasizes the depth of the love he expects of his disciples and reveals his obsession with this idea from now on.
A vision that needs understanding
Despite the clarity of the message, both the twelve and the Jewish leaders seem to not fully understand the purpose of Jesus. Its insistence on love as the central axis of its teaching represents a challenge that continues to resonate today, inviting us to reflect on the way we live our relationships.
