Greetings on this the Friday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Readings: Acts 15:22-31; Psalm 57:8-9, 10 and 12; John 15:12-17
Summary
‘It is the decision of the holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities, namely, to abstain from meat sacrificed to idols, from blood, from meats of strangled animals, and from unlawful marriage. If you keep free of these, you will be doing what is right. Farewell.’ You are my friends if you do what I command you. This I command you: love one another (Acts 15:28-29; Jn 15:14,17).
Reflection
Ocean-going ships have to go to dry dock every so often to get a cleaning. It seems all sorts of mollusks and algae things stick to the hull and build up and eventually even interfere with the safety of the ship. So into dry dock they go and they blast off the barnacles and stuff. Then back to sea making for smooth sailing.
The Church takes note and often spends time refining the things of necessity and leniency using the commandment to love others as self and to love all no matter their life story.
Personal Reflection
We too should take note. Do not place burdens on people beyond that which is necessary. Render aid, not judgement and… Farewell.
Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050826.cfm
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry