7th Sunday of Easter (C) : 29th May 2022

As Stephen faced his death by stoning, he forgave his killers and was given a vision of the Lord. He was fearless and at peace. A young man named Saul was not at peace – he was filled with rage and fanatical zeal. Later on, he would become a great apostle and would follow in Stephen’s footsteps to martyrdom. We never know what direction a person’s life may take – even our own. God is not finished with us. In Revelation, those who wash their robes in the blood of the Lamb can enter and draw sustenance from the tree of life. For us, that means putting aside selfishness and giving humble and loving service to others. Jesus invites us all – He says, ‘Come!’ Jesus prayed that all His followers might be one in mind and heart, united with one another and with Him. Jesus and the Father could then come and dwell within them. Jesus had made known to them the name of God – meaning God’s nature. – and that nature was light and love. If we accept that, then that same light and love must shine forth from us in our daily lives.

Lord, may I be one in mind and heart with You. Amen.