HOUR OF JESUS
A Profound Moment in Salvation History
In the Gospel of John, we encounter a recurring theme of Jesus referring to his “hour.” This concept holds deep theological significance and offers profound insights into Christ’s mission and the unfolding of God’s plan for humanity’s redemption.
Throughout his ministry, Jesus often stated that his “hour had not yet come” (Jn 2:4; 7:6, 30). This mysterious “hour” was not merely a reference to a specific time but rather the culmination of Jesus’ earthly mission – the moment when he would “pass from this world to the Father” (Jn 13:1) through his passion, death, and resurrection.
The concept of Jesus’ “hour” is intricately linked to the fulfillment of God’s salvific plan. It represents the pivotal moment when Christ would accomplish the Father’s will and bring about the redemption of humanity. This “hour” was both a moment of glory and suffering, as Jesus would be lifted up on the cross and subsequently exalted in his resurrection.
As the moment approached, Jesus began to speak more explicitly about the coming of his “hour.” He declared to his disciples, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified” (Jn 12:23). This statement marks a turning point in John’s Gospel, signaling the beginning of Jesus’ journey toward his passion and death.
Interestingly, while this “hour” was primarily Jesus’ own, it also involved the actions of his enemies. Jesus acknowledged this dual nature when he said to those who came to arrest him, “This is your hour, and the power of darkness” (Lk 22:53). This paradox highlights the mysterious interplay between divine providence and human free will in the unfolding of salvation history.
The theme of the “hour” extends beyond Jesus’ passion and death. In his teachings, Christ used the expression “the hour is coming” to signify imminent and significant changes in the spiritual landscape. For instance, he told the Samaritan woman, “The hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem” (Jn 4:21, 23). This prophecy pointed to the universality of true worship that would transcend geographical limitations.
Jesus also used this phrase to speak of the resurrection and final judgment: “The hour is coming and is now here when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live” (Jn 5:25). These statements underscore the eschatological dimension of Jesus’ “hour,” linking it not only to his immediate passion but also to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s kingdom.
REFLECTION
For us as Christians today, reflecting on the “hour of Jesus” offers several important lessons:
1. Trust in God’s Timing: Just as Jesus awaited his “hour,” we are called to trust in God’s perfect timing in our lives.
2. Embrace Our Mission: Christ’s unwavering commitment to his mission, even in the face of suffering, challenges us to embrace our own calling with similar dedication.
3. Recognize the Present Moment: Jesus’ words that “the hour is coming and is now here” remind us to be attentive to God’s presence and action in our current circumstances.
4. Prepare for Spiritual Challenges: Jesus’ acknowledgment of the “hour of darkness” warns us to be vigilant and prepared for spiritual battles.
5. Look Forward in Hope: The ultimate triumph of Christ’s “hour” encourages us to face our trials with hope, knowing that God’s plan leads to resurrection and new life.
As we contemplate the profound mystery of Jesus’ “hour,” may we be inspired to align our lives more closely with God’s will, recognizing that each moment offers an opportunity to participate in the ongoing work of salvation. Let us embrace our own “hour” of discipleship, knowing that Christ has already won the victory and invites us to share in his triumph.