“Very truly, I tell you, the one who believes in me will also do the works that I do and, in fact, will do greater works than these, because I am going to the Father.” (John 14:12)

John 14:1-12
 

Jesus ends his discourse by telling the disciples that they will do greater works than him if they continue to believe in him.

Scholars have debated the “greater works” that Jesus mentions for centuries. All agree that Jesus is not implying that his disciples would be greater than him or achieve more than he did. Instead, some suggest that it indicates the disciples’ expanding mission to all people. Others apply it to the disciples’ continuation of Jesus’ ministry of healing and salvation, specifically through the church’s sacraments.

I would argue that perhaps Jesus’ idea of greater works aligns with the Ignatian understanding of Magis.

The Magis is an Ignatian principle that we can always achieve more than we thought possible. Magis is a Latin term meaning “more” or “greater.” It is something that St. Ignatius of Loyola encouraged his followers to strive towards. It is not about being prideful and arrogant but about choosing to do that which will make the most significant impact in every situation. It is about following the path that brings the most love, grace and life.

Perhaps Jesus was implying something similar here; if his followers kept true to the way of Jesus, they could bring greater love, grace and life into the world around them.

Do Jesus’ words about his followers doing greater works than him inspire you or concern you?

Consider the Ignatian concept of Magis. How do you strive for ‘more’ or ‘the greater’ in your life?

Consider your plans for today and this coming weekend. How could you be an agent of bringing greater love, grace and life to those you will be around?
 

Reflections by Joe Taylor

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