Scripture Study for

Those who were with Jesus as he ascended return to the city and devote themselves to prayer. The list of apostles in the first reading corresponds with other  lists found in the Gospel accounts, with the exception of Judas Iscariot. Simon  is identified as a member of the Zealots, a militant wing of the Jewish independence movement. The women who accompany these men might be their wives or women followers of Jesus who came with him from Galilee and who attended  to his burial. His mother was there along with his brothers. These latter no longer questioned the authenticity of Jesus’ ministry. They now join his disciples in  prayer, open to the unfolding of God’s plan. 

The author of the Letter of Peter is very clear about the reason for the suffering  of the Christians. They are either defamed for the name of Christ or persecuted  for being Christians. Since their religious teaching and values frequently prevent  them from engaging in behavior that is part of pagan culture, they often have  to endure misunderstanding, mistrust, and resentment. Their way of living is  considered antisocial at best, treasonable at worst. The author of the letter tells  them to bear the name “Christian” proudly, and to endure any misfortune that  might befall them because of it. 

This passage from John’s Gospel is commonly known as the High Priestly  prayer. Jesus speaks of having accomplished his work and of returning to his  Father. It is clearly a farewell message in which Jesus prays for himself and for his  disciples. The theme upon which most other themes depend is the unparalleled  relationship between Jesus and God. The glorification for which Jesus prays can  now be seen within the context of this unique relationship. While on earth, Jesus  revealed the name of his Father through the life that he lived and the ministry  that he performed. Finally, in leaving the world, Jesus prays for his disciples who  remain within it.