Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also wish to go away?” Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? 

You have the words of eternal life; and we have believed, 

and have come to know, that you are the Holy One of God.” (John 6: 67-69) 
 

 John 6: 60-69 

After reflecting on our disbelief at Jesus’ words, doubt, struggles, and withdrawal from the Lord, we finally have a moment of faith and consolation at the end of a long, difficult week.

Jesus seems to offer the remaining disciples an out: “Do you want to leave as well? I know what I’m saying isn’t easy.”

But Peter responds with a declaration of faith, “To whom shall we go? Your words are life! You are the Holy One!”

Peter and the others who remain have experienced Jesus. They know who he is and the effect he has on their lives. Their encounter with him has transformed them. His friendship is everything to them.

This week’s reflection is ultimately an invitation for us to consider our own experiences of Jesus. Who has he been to us? What effect have his words had on our lives? What happened to us after we encountered him?

If we reflect on our experience of Jesus, we will also declare him the Holy One, whose words are eternal life. Despite our doubts and struggles, we will also declare, “To whom shall we go?”

What has been my experience of Jesus? 

Have I encountered him? 

Has he become my friend? 

Has this encounter transformed me?

Reflections by Sean van Staden SJ

Loving God,
Reflecting upon my experiences with you, I am overcome with gratitude. Your words have brought me life, and your friendship has transformed me. To whom shall I go?
Amen.

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