TUESDAY, THIRD WEEK OF EASTER
Acts 7:51 — 8:1 Ps 31: 3-4,6-8,17,21 Jn 6: 30-35
COURAGEOUS AND FAITH-FILLED WITNESSING
Our Christian life is a journey sustained by faith, strengthened by the Eucharist, and directed toward eternal life. Stephen boldly proclaims Christ, even as he faces hostility. His words challenge his listeners, but instead of repenting and seeking forgiveness, they respond with violence. Yet, Stephen remains steadfast. Filled with the Holy Spirit, he looks up to heaven and sees the glory of God and Jesus standing at the Father’s right hand. This vision fills him with hope, and, even as he is stoned to death, his final words mirror those of Christ on the cross: “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” Stephen’s journey does not end in tragedy but in triumph; his faith leads him to eternal life. He is a true pilgrim of hope, teaching us that our hope is not in this world but in the promise of heaven.
In the Gospel, Jesus declares, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.” The people ask for a sign like the manna given in the desert, but Jesus points them to something greater – Himself. Just as the Israelites were sustained by manna on their journey, we, as pilgrims of hope, are sustained by Christ in the Eucharist. The Bread of Life nourishes us for the challenges of our faith journey, giving us strength to remain steadfast, just as Stephen did.
The connection between these readings and the message of the Jubilee Year is clear. Stephen, nourished by his faith in Christ, endures suffering with hope because he knows his final destination is with God. Likewise, we, as pilgrims, must walk with courage, trusting that Christ will sustain us. As we celebrate this Jubilee, let us renew our commitment to be witnesses of hope. Strengthened by the Eucharist, may we proclaim our hope in Christ with courage and perseverance, knowing that our journey leads to eternal life.
Response: Into your hands, O Lord, I commend my spirit.
Copyright ©2025 ©Springs of Living Water http://springs.carmelmedia.in