Living in but not belonging to?

The Roman Catholic Lectionary today offers texts which encourage us to ponder the place of the follower of Jesus. John relates the final discourse and prayer of Jesus to the Father for protection of the ones given to Jesus from the evil one. The trouble which befalls Jesus followers is said to be rooted in a belonging which is different from that of those who hate them. This is a paradoxical situation. The Word is made flesh, yet the gift of the Word alienates some from others in the flesh. As Paul realizes the disciple must live the paradox. The Mystery of physical intimacy with the Divine is both proper for Creator and Creature and scandalous for sinful flesh. A deeper experience of Love is the invitation to unlock some of this Mystery.