Tuesday of the 3^rd week of Easter

Acts 7: 51-8:1a     John 6: 30-35

Theme: Authentic discipleship

Today from the Acts of the Apostles, we continue to reflect on the life of St. Stephen and the difficulties he went through in the hands of the people, because they could not stand the truth about themselves that he told them. He was speaking to the people without fear or favour and telling them to change their ways and embrace the way of God, that will lead them to eternal life. Unfortunately for him, the people could not stand his teachings, because it was indicting them about their way of life and the need for them to turn away from their evil ways. This greatly angered the people, and it eventually led to the people stoning him to death. Interestingly, Stephen knew the implication of his actions but remained steadfast until the end. He willingly gave his life for his faith in God.

Dearly beloved in Christ, this brings us to a very important question that needs our attention today. What is your disposition towards criticisms that affects you directly, especially constructive criticism? Do you accept it, and reflect on it or you fight against whoever comes up with such a criticism? This question is very important, because many of us cannot stand the truth about themselves, especially when it is negative. I think the right thing to do is not to fight the bearer of the message, but rather to reflect on what has been said and do the needful. Taking into consideration the fact that non of us is perfect, we all have something to work on in our life. When we behave like the people and the elders and the scribes in todays 1st reading, we are simply saying that we are perfect people and as such we are doing everything right in our lives. We all know that is not true and right, because none of us is perfect, and without something to work on in our personal lives.

In view of this dearly beloved in Christ, why do we still find it difficult to accept and take responsibility for our human failings? We need to humble ourselves and right the wrongs in our lives, instead of waging war against all those who correct or point out aspects of our lives that needs our urgent attention. It could also be seen as pride, when we refuse to take corrections about the things we are not doing right in our lives. We are all encouraged today to humble ourselves and be positively disposed to become the best version of ourselves. May God always grant us the proper disposition, in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.