It's Because of Who He Is

    

Sixth Sunday of Easter

05 May 2024

 

First Reading: Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48

Responsorial Psalm: Ps 98:1, 2-3, 3-4

Second Reading: 1 Jn 4:7-10

Gospel: Jn 15:9-17

 

Reflection

By: Anabelle P. Balla

 

It has nothing to do with me or with you. It is not because of how good or bad we are. It is all because of Him, of what He is. He is all Good. He is Love. He is Joy. He is our God who remains with us and calls us His friends.

We only have to abide in Him, in His love.

I am always tempted to treat others because of what they do and how they behaved. I often caught myself fuming inside when I experience unfairness or witness misdeeds being done openly. I have a tendency to turn from an obliging sheep to an angry bear when poked or when I am or any of my loved ones are attacked for no valid reasons. A priest once told me, "Ana, you look like an angel but you seem to have a "lion's" heart when you're angry. And so I am a bear and also a lion when I am mad - only internally though. Maybe this is the reason why I really try hard to master my emotions so I can stand up for what is good and fair in a peaceful manner and can help right the wrong with love and good intent. It is a challenge to remain calm and forgiving. What keeps me in control is staying grounded to my love and calm center - Jesus. I call on Him and try to remember how He favors me despite being unworthy. And it is all because of who He is and not because of who I am. And also for His commandment, "...that you love one another as I have loved you."

We have a very inspiring Gospel this Sunday and please allow me to repeat the key messages here.

"As the Father loved me, I also have loved you; abide in My love".

These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full"

"but I have called you friends"

"You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and ber fruit."

Prayer

Father, please continue to keep us close to You and never allow us to wander away from You. Grant us overwhelming love, joy, and inspiration so that we maybe able to love others like You do, despite who we arw and who they are. Help us be a channel of love and blessings to everyone we encounter everywhere we go. In Jesus' Name, Amen.