5th Week of Easter : Monday 19th May 2025

Escaping from the onslaught of threats of the Jews and pagans towards them, Paul and Barnabas left for Lyconia, where they found the treatment was beyond respect. When they arrived in Lystra, Paul healed a man who had been crippled since birth. The pagans immediately thought that Paul and Barnabas were gods and wanted to worship them and offer a sacrifice to them. However, Paul and Barnabas turned this into an opportunity to share the love of God with the people, proclaiming the “living God” Who revealed Himself in the creation of the universe and the bountiful gifts provided for the people.

Jesus was speaking with His disciples. In this passage of John 14, it is evident that to love Jesus is to follow His commandments. If we follow Jesus’ commandments which can be condensed into love God and one another, then we will have a relationship with Jesus and His Father. The disciples were puzzled by the seeming simplicity of that message – but we know that, while it may sound simple, it isn’t easy to accomplish. It is very challenging to truly love others. How seriously are we taking the words of Jesus? The one who helps us follow this directive is the Advocate or Holy Spirit whom Jesus promised to His disciples and Who lives within believers. To keep the words of Jesus, we are to invite the Holy Spirit to be our helper and guide.

Come Holy Spirit! Fill me with Your love and grace to treat others as Jesus would.