EASTER DIGEST with Fr. PiusRalph EFFIONG, SMMM

MONDAY OF THE FIFTH WEEK IN EASTERTIDE 

Table of the Word

First Reading: Acts 14:5–18

Gospel: John 14:21–26

Theme: If a man loves me, he will keep my word.

Reflection

In today’s Gospel pericope, Evangelist John redirect our thoughts again to the notion of "love" a virtue which summarizes the decalogue (ten commandments). Here Jesus offers a tender promise: those who love Him and keep His word will become a dwelling place for God. This is a profound mystery, that the Creator of the universe longs to make His home within us. Love for Jesus is not just emotional; it is shown through obedience, attentiveness, and faithfulness to His teachings (cf. John 14:21–26)

 That is to say in loving Jesus our Lord and Master we are also loving God the Father whom our Lord is in Him. This will only be possible when we hold on to the detects and ordinances of God which is enshrined in humility of heart as the psalmist reechoes in his response today: Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory." (Psalm 115:1ab)

In the same Spirit, we see the manifestation of this in the first reading where Paul and Barnabas faced misunderstanding and even idolatry from the crowds after a miraculous healing. Instead of accepting praise, they redirect the glory to God, urging the people to turn from worthless idols to the living God, Creator of all (cf. Acts 14:5–18). Their humility and clarity point us to a vital truth: our lives and gifts must always give glory to God, not ourselves. 

Dearest friends, from the table of the Word today we witness both the power of God working through His apostles and the deep intimacy God desires with each of us. 

In the light of this, let us reflect on the idols we may unknowingly hold on to - approval, success, control - and instead open our hearts anew to the living God. May our lives, like those of the apostles, bear witness to His truth. And may we allow His word to shape our actions so deeply that we become a true dwelling place of His presence.

Finally, as we remain the harbinger of the Good News let us be mindful of these beautiful words of the early Christians in their day-to-day living experience: 

"We are proclaiming good news to you, that you should turn from these vain things to the living God, who made the heaven and the earth and the sea and all that is in them." (Acts 14:15). 

+ May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts both now and forevermore.  Amen. 

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