THURSDAY, FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER
Acts 15: 7-21 Ps 96: 1-3,10 Jn 15: 9-11
HIS ABIDING LOVE
The readings of today invite us to re-examine our understanding of obedience to God’s commandments. For Jesus, obedience meant “abiding in His Father’s love” – an experience He describes as joyful. His perfect obedience to the Father was not burdensome but a source of profound joy, and He extends this same invitation to us. When we obey, our hearts become lighter and more joyful. Of course, doubts may arise; ‘ifs,’ ‘buts,’ and other questions may cloud our minds. Yet Jesus calls us to focus not on these distractions but to simply “abide in His love.” Each act of obedience strengthens us for the next, like stepping stones forming a path. We obey His commandments one step at a time, always sheltered by His abiding love. This divine love actively pursues us when we wander or grow stagnant. When we falter in obedience, His love draws us back, offering fresh opportunities to experience the fullness of His joy.
The Gospel passage of the day reveals God’s love in its purest form. Jesus cannot love partially; He loves us completely, just as the Father loves Him. He shares with us His perfect joy, ultimately giving His life on the cross. In loving the Father perfectly, He loves you and me without reserve. This truth compels self-examination: Can I honestly say I love every person around me without compromise or exception? If the answer is “no,” let us echo the tax collector’s prayer in the Temple (c.f. Luke 18:13): “Lord, I am a sinner”.
The Eucharistic presence, in the tabernacle and at Holy Mass, stands as the living memorial of His abiding love. Here, Christ remains ready to share His very self whenever we approach Him. With Mary as our model, let us cultivate a living faith in His real presence. May we allow ourselves to be united with Him completely, becoming vessels of His joy and love to all around us.
Response: Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord.
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