Father, they are your gift to me

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Seventh Week :  Thursday*

*Gospel : Jn 17:20-26*

*First Reading : Acts 22:30; 23:6-11*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 16:1-2a and 5, 7-8, 9-10, 11*

*Father, they are your gift to me.*

*1) Jesus’ high priestly prayer.*

The phrase *Father, they are your gift to me* is taken from the Gospel of John 17:24, part of Jesus’ high priestly prayer. 

It is a deeply intimate moment where Jesus speaks to His Father about His disciples. 

*2) Disciples as a Gift of the Father*

"Father, they are your gift to me..." (John 17:24)

Jesus sees His followers not merely as learners or servants, but as gifts entrusted to Him by the Father. This shows:

The value and dignity of each disciple in the eyes of Christ.

That our relationship with Christ is rooted in the Father’s initiative—we are chosen and given.

It reflects the divine generosity of the Father who gives what is most precious to His Son.

Do we see our own lives and those around us as *“gifts”* in God's plan?

*3) The Trinitarian Bond of Love*

This statement reflects the love within the Trinity being extended to humanity:

The Father gives the disciples to Jesus.

Jesus offers His life for them.

The Spirit is then given to guide and sanctify them.

Our lives are caught up in this divine relationship.

Being a gift means we are loved, called, and invited into communion with God.

*4) Jesus’ Desire to Share Glory with the Gifted Ones*

He not only receives the disciples as a gift but also wants to share His glory with them—this is the ultimate fulfillment of the divine plan.

That's why Jesus says *I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory..."*

Jesus doesn’t want to keep anything for Himself—He wants us to be where He is, to behold and share in His glory. 

What a powerful image of divine love and inclusion!

*5) An Invitation to Gratitude and Responsibility*

If the people in our lives are “gifts” from the Father, we are called:

To treat others with reverence, especially those entrusted to our care.

To cherish our community, as Jesus did with His disciples.

To honor our calling as “gifts” to Christ by living a or thy lives.

*6) Final Thought*

"Father, they are your gift to me" is a line that reveals the heart of Jesus—a heart full of gratitude, love, and longing for communion. 

We are not random followers; we are cherished, chosen, and gifted. And this calls us to live with joy, faithfulness, and reverence.

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*