Jubilate, 2026

Thus, Jesus appeared after periods of “a little while.” Seven times the phrase is spoken in this Gospel—seven, a number which calls to mind the days of the week. So that we might learn what it is to live in that “little while,” between His coming to us in the Gospel and the Sacraments. 

This cannot be overemphasized. It has profound significance for you in your daily life. It’s not that the “little whiles” disappear, or that the waiting ends, or—even—that you are lifted out of it. Rather, the “little whiles” are now filled: filled with His speaking, filled with His giving, filled with His coming to you. He comes in His Word. He binds His Name to water. He gives you His very substance under bread and wine. So that the “little whiles” are not empty time; they are filled with Him, for you. Therefore, when you experience trouble, sorrow, anguish, pain, and the threat of falling into despair, remember what the Disciples went through, and how Jesus taught them and came to them just as He said He would, with these words: “A little while, and you shall see Me.” Not as an empty promise. Not as some vain hope. Not as something distant or delayed. Rather, as something given, certain, and present, for He is here even now as He has promised to be. 

Readings:

• Old Testament: Isaiah 40:25-31

• Epistle: 1 Peter 2:11-20

• Holy Gospel: John 16:16-22

Sermon:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ksW1JmGJkKk