Our first reading is a unique in its style and offers to us a glimpse of the workings of the early Church.The disciples are in a foreign land, spreading the Good News, and there seems to be some local customs and traditions that come into conflict. The apostles and elders write to the new Christians of Gentile origin in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia and express that they know “some of our number who went out without any mandate from us have upset you with their teachings and disturbed your peace of mind…” What is more interesting is the resolution of this problem, as stated, “It is the decision of the Holy Spirit and of us not to place on you any burden beyond these necessities…” This bears quite an important message. When we remove much of the other parts of this reading as I have done, it seems fitting to be applied today. The respectfulness in resolving this conflict is the most telling part of this lesson for me. The apostles and elders ensure the focus is on God’s message. They underscore that the misunderstanding is theirs, from man and not God, but the resolution is from the Holy Spirit. How can I adapt the way I speak with others to understand what subtle conflicts I may encounter while spreading God’s word to others? Do I keep the will of God as the focus when I do so?
Our Psalm is focused on praising the Lord, but also remembering all of the blessings He gives us as a merciful and loving God. What are some of the ways the Lord has been kind and merciful in your life? Do I allow the Lord’s mercy to flow from me to impact others?
Our Second Reading from Revelation shares the vision of the splendor of God in the “holy city
Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God.” In this vision, there are 12 angels guarding 12 gates, honoring the 12 tribes of Israel, and a wall with 12 courses of stones, inscribed with the names of the 12 apostles.The only thing left out is the temple; the temple is Jesus.This reminds us of the fulfillment of all Scriptures and the coming of the Messiah. Can I see this holy city coming down out of heaven from God? How does this speak to me this Easter?
Today’s Gospel has Jesus continuing to teach us, wanting us to truly understand and believe so that we can teach others. He tells us that if we love Him, we would keep His word and be happy that He is going to the Father in heaven. We often mourn when someone passes, but Jesus says we should rejoice for they are going to the Father in heaven, just like He did. When it is our time, Jesus will come for us too. We are told that these are God’s words, not only Jesus’ words. Do I have the faith to believe Jesus will return for me? Have I accepted His words and become an advocate for God to others? How else do these readings and Gospel help me believe?
~Ray Martinelli