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As Jesus introduces the spirit of Truth as part of our relationship with God. Truth is absolutely foundational for spiritual growth, not just an optional “nice‑to‑have” accessory. In Christian teaching, truth is what God uses to convert and set people free. Spiritual growth therefore depends on a willingness to hear teaching, examine one’s life, and reject self‑deception, which is why “hunger for truth” is listed as an indicator of genuine spiritual growth alongside love and hatred of sin. With these elements spiritual growth happens; without it, our growth becomes shallow, fragile, or even counterfeit.

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In today’s edition there is a lot going on in this Gospel which is typical in John’s Gospel. The Gospel starts with Jesus trying to reassure his disciples. He speaks about providing a place for them and returning to come and get them. It is obvious that Jesus is feeling a connection and is being protective of them. When people feel they belong—whether in a family, community, or spiritual group—they are more willing to be vulnerable, explore questions of meaning, and let themselves be “seen” by others and by the Divine.

It is important to examine who is Jesus for you? Is he relevant to your life? What is his personality like? Are you comfortable seeing Jesus as brother, a friend, wise mentor? I am always fascinated with the answers I get when I ask who is God for you? Some believe in God but see God as a supreme being, others a creator or judge. How we perceive God goes a long way on how we relate to our God and our spiritual development.

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One of the techniques that Jesus used was using situations that the people would be familiar with. The readings today are no exception. The people would be familiar with the gate keeper for the sheep. To give you some background, most villages had a walled in field where the local shepherds would bring their flocks for the night. The shepherds would take their turn guarding the gate to make sure no one came it to hurt any of the sheep. I am thinking of people who might want to have lamb chops for supper. This arrangement allowed the shepherds to spend time with their families. In the morning the shepherds would come and literally call their sheep out by name.

This teaching focuses on the protective aspect of our God. This is not the only example of God’s protective stance. Do you have a sense of God’s protective love? Sadly, many do not feel this protective love and more than once felt abandoned or wonder if God actually cares or has taken a hands-off approach.

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