Greetings on this the Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 15:7-21; Psalm 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 10; John 15:9-11
Summary
After much debate had taken place, Peter got up and said to them, “My brothers, you are well aware that from early days God made his choice among you that through my mouth the Gentiles would hear the word of the gospel and believe. [Jesus said] I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and your joy may be complete (Acts 15:7; Jn 15:11).
Reflection
Through the arc of the gospel readings this week we can recognize a set of blessings and the active agents of the blessings. Given along side the continuous reading of the Acts of the Apostles, we witness specific reflections of these gifts in a tangible way. Today Peter announces the JOY of the Gentiles to be receivers of the fullness of the gifts of the Father (exemplified in the gift of the Holy Spirit). He made no distinction between us and them, for by faith he purified their hearts.
Revealing the Advocate.
- Monday – Love – Gift of the Holy Spirit.
- Tuesday – Peace – Going to the Father.
- Wednesday – Fruit – Vine and Branches.
- Thursday – Joy (today) – Jesus’ Commandment to love as he loves.
- Friday – Friendship – The Father has chosen.
- Saturday – The Name – I have chosen you out of the world.
Personal Reflection
If I were to take the summary of the week in reverse order, I would write this:
In THE NAME of Jesus we are to become like him in all things. The Father has chosen to bestow upon us His FRIENDSHIP. It is with JOY we are to receive the commission to love as Jesus loved. To do so, God will help us become FRUIT of the Vine. Because of this we have the same PEACE Jesus has in his returning to the Father. And it is all animated by the LOVE the Father has for us by giving his Holy Spirit to dwell within us.
I think JOY is a good response today… and gratitude.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050726.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry