May the Lord give you peace. It is 24th April 2023.
We reflect on Acts 6:8-15 and John 6:22-29.
Are we living up to God’s will or the evil?
When our life and words disturb others, can we remain calm and glowing even amidst hatred, antagonism and accusations?
It happened to St. Stephen who proclaimed the message of Christ was accused and condemned by a group of people. It is only possible to remain composed and focused, when we are filled with the Holy Spirit like St. Stephen. “His face was like the face of an angel.” (Acts 6:15).
Glowing amidst the gloomy moments are right within each one of us. We just need to tap them and utilize them during the hard times like this. Someone wants us to pull and pluck out the wings of the angels deep within. There is always someone trying to bring the devil from us. We need to remember always that just because someone is evil and treating us so badly, we do not need to prove them how evil we could be. When we have the power to glow like the angel, why are we remaining gloomy like the devil?
The responsorial Psalm praises, “Blessed are they who walk in the way of the Lord.” (Ps.119:1).
The Gospel clarifies the question what are we looking for Jesus? The people followed Jesus for something. We must be following Jesus for something too. Our quest for the encounter with love and truth cannot begin with the material things. If it does, it is going to dissolve in the same material things.
Self-giving is the gift of Jesus through His Words and Works. The significance of knowing and relating that matters for every relationship especially the intimacy with the Lord is love.
What we need for our families is self-building time are to recognize and acknowledge what is happening in our families, taking ownership and responsibility, without invading the boundaries of the others, by keep the we-time without intruding into me-time, having fun with compassionate listening to the games displayed, avoiding by all means the most sensitive and painful sentiments, celebrating every minute with respect, love, forgiveness in abundance.
Let us stop looking for material enrichment in our relationships rather to deepen our commitments and love for each other always. “Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you.” (Jn.6:27).
May you have a good day to go, grow and glow. God bless you.