MONDAY OF THE THIRD WEEK OF EASTER
Table of the Word
First Reading: Acts 6:8–15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 119:23-24, 26-27, 29-30
Gospel: John 6:22–29
Theme: "What must we do, to be doing the works of God?"
Reflection
"What must we do, to be doing the works of God?" Jesus answered them, "This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent."
The above extract from today's Gospel pericope presents a pivotal moment following the multiplication of the loaves. The crowd seeks Jesus, but He confronts their motivations: “You are looking for me not because you saw signs but because you ate the loaves and were filled.” Jesus shifts the focus from earthly satisfaction to eternal nourishment, from the food that perishes to the food that endures for eternal life. (cf. John 6:22–29)
Jesus invites the people, and us to believe in the One sent by the Father. Belief is not merely intellectual assent, but a surrender, a trust that transforms how we live. He calls us to move from seeking signs to embracing faith. That same faith found in Stephen as recorded in the first reading (cf. Acts 6:8–15)
Here we meet Stephen, full of grace and power, performing great wonders among the people. Yet, despite his goodness, false accusations are brought against him. His face, we’re told, “was like the face of an angel.” Stephen’s unwavering witness challenges us to remain faithful, even when we are misunderstood or falsely accused. His courage came not from himself, but from the Holy Spirit working through him.
Finally, as we continue our journey as Easter people let us live out the gospel values. Let our words match with our actions as we remain witnesses to the risen Lord as Stephen did today, but not following Jesus because of the miracles of the multiplication of the loaves. + May the Lord bless His Words in our hearts. Amen.
© The ARCHIVE 05052025
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