Picture division within the Sanhedrin and among the Chief Priests over the issue of resurrection, angel and spirits. Pharisees accept Paul's particular preaching about resurrection, angels and spirits. The Sadducees? No way. The scene described in the daily readings for today remind me of the American political party scene of late. Paul was rescued from the melee by the soldiers. In a later dream, he is told by God to be strong for there is more witnessing to do in Rome. Then in the gospel story we encounter the well-know call of Jesus to the Father for the gift of unity among his followers --- unity with himself and the Father.
So, what graces can we gather from these words of Jesus? God loves us just as he loves the Son. In fact, Jesus says we are the Father's gift to the Son. Imagine how special we must be. But how real is my awareness of God's love for me? Did you think of that at all today in the rush-rush world that we live in?
