Good morning, Good People!
May the Lord give you peace and blessings. It is 03rd June 2025. We reflect on Acts 20:17–27 and John 17:1–11. We celebrate the memorial of St. Charles Lwanga and the Martyrs of Uganda, who boldly declared: “We have made up our minds for the faith. Whether it is good or bad, we are going to hold on to God.”
Parting carries a deep pain. It brings sadness and uncertainty to those who are closest to the one who is departing. And yet, each of us must move on in life.
Some move on because of new responsibilities; others, because they have been wounded or threatened. A few are forced to leave due to accusations or persecutions stirred by malicious hearts or unjust systems. Whatever the reason, every parting is emotional. It reaches into the soul and aches.
Yet in this mystery of parting, God accomplishes what He wills. The departure of a person or a group opens space for something new—new growth, new vision, new grace. In the divine economy, no one is irreplaceable. God’s work will continue, and He will raise up new labourers for His vineyard.
Still, it hurts. Whether we part ways for the better or the worse, we are left raw. But even in our sorrow, God gives us courage and vision to step forward in faith.
In the first reading, St. Paul leaves the Church in Ephesus after three intense years of preaching, teaching, and healing. He sets his face toward Jerusalem, uncertain of what awaits him. And yet, with holy boldness he declares: “But I do not count my life of any value to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the good news of God’s grace.” (Acts 20:24)
The Psalm lifts our hearts: “You kingdoms of the earth, sing to God.” (Psalm 68:33)
And the Gospel opens the sacred moment of Jesus’ farewell prayer. He knows His hour has come to return to the Father. With deep love and solemn peace, He says: “I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do.” (John 17:4)
Like Paul and Jesus, we are called to entrust our work, our loved ones, and our future into God’s hands. Their final words of prayer are not just farewells—they are acts of surrender, of completion, of divine trust.
Have we finished the work God has entrusted to us? This question must echo in every heart. For if we part without fulfilling our mission, the pain may be heavier. But if we have loved well, served faithfully, and obeyed the call, then even in sorrow, there is peace.
May the Lord give us the grace to complete our mission and the strength to face the unknown with the power of the Holy Spirit. May their courage inspire us to remain steadfast, especially in times of parting and uncertainty. Have a blessed day. God bless you.