Thursday of the 5th week of Easter
Theme: Keep my commandment
In the gospel reading of today, Jesus said if we keep his commandments we will abide in his love. With this assertion, Jesus is giving us an insight into what we should do to attain salvation. It is now left for you and I as children of God to play our own role if we truly intend to make salvation at the end of our earthly pilgrimage. The emphasis here is on love of God and neighbours. We are all encouraged to trust in the grace of God and do all within our power to live a life that is informed by love. If we allow love to drive all our actions, it will be easier for us to build a good relationship with God and our neighbours. However, it is not going to be an easy task, but the most important thing is that we have to resolve to consciously make effort in our daily lives. Let us be strengthened by the word of God, which says that the grace of God is sufficient for us. Simply put, there must be conscious effort to keep the commandments of God.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, the response to our psalm today says, “Tell among all the peoples the wonders of the Lord”. Our lives as children of God should be testimony for all those around us to see. In different ways and at different times, God continues to show us the depth of his love for us; not minding our unfaithfulness. Things may not be going according to our plans at the moment, but the fact that we are still alive simply means that God is not yet done with us. That we are alive today is a miracle. Let your life be a testimony to all those who encounter you at any point in time.
In the controversy about circumcision, we see Peter speaking as an elder and resolving the issue of circumcision that was acting as a barrier against the Gentiles who have embraced the teachings of the Disciples of Christ. His action says a lot to all of us as Christians and especially to elders in our own time. He spoke without fear or favour and also as an elder. May we never lead ourselves into situations that will make us loose our voice. May Almighty God bless you, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.