John 16:5-11 NRSVue

5But now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me, ‘Where are you going?’ 6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your hearts. 7Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Advocate will not come to you, but if I go, I will send him to you. 8And when he comes, he will prove the world wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment: 9about sin, because they do not believe in me; 10about righteousness, because I am going to the Father, and you will see me no longer; 11about judgment, because the ruler of this world has been condemned.


Reflection on John 16:5-11

Inspiration from 2025-05-27 Daily Prayer

Jesus is about to return to the One who sent him. He knows his disciples will miss him and be sorrowful, but together with his Father, he will send them the Holy Spirit, who will support and comfort them. It is through faith that we know him now, and we can truly meet our risen Lord in prayer.

Further reflection

Lord, you see the way we are with one another: we find it hard to say Goodbye. Our last words always carry the promise of further meeting: /See you; au revoir, auf wiedersehen; a reviderci./ In these goodbyes to your friends, you were holding out a scarcely believable promise, of a meeting on the far side of the grave.


There is a new world ahead of the disciples - the world of the Spirit who will speak within them, deepening their convictions and their love of God in Jesus. The Spirit of truth is not tied to time or space but in all times inspires the desire to live by truth and follow the Lord Jesus.


There is so much commentary on television, or radio, on the internet and in print; there are many opinions, judgements and values. I allow some time to take to heart Jesus' assurance that only the Holy Spirit brings a true understanding of sin, righteousness and judgment.


As I look at my life, I pray for the grace of the Holy Spirit to shed light, to bring truth and to be the consolation that Jesus promises.


Jesus answers the question that disciples did not ask. Sometimes my spoken prayers seem not to be answered as Jesus addresses the questions that may be deeper in my heart.