WEDNESDAY OF THE SEVENTH WEEK IN EASTERTIDE
Table of the Word
First Reading: Acts 20:28–38
Gospel: John 17:11b–19
Theme: Sanctify them in the Truth.
Reflection
In today’s Gospel from John 17, we hear a portion of Jesus’ high priestly prayer signifying his intimacy with the Father. In this powerful prayer He offers to the Father on behalf of His disciples His wishes. As Jesus prepares to return to the Father, His heart is focused not on Himself, but on those He is leaving behind. He prays, “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.”
This plea reveals Jesus’ deep desire that His followers be rooted in the truth of God, not merely protected from danger, but transformed and consecrated for mission. Sanctification is not only a separation from the world’s lies, but also a sending forth into the world with the Gospel to water down lies and revive the Spirit of truth in every heart.
In the Acts of the Apostles, Paul speaks his final words to the elders of the church in Ephesus. He warns them to “keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock,” aware that challenges will come, even from within. Paul’s words echo the same deep concern for the integrity and endurance of the Church that Jesus expresses in His prayer.
Both readings offer us a picture of spiritual leadership rooted in love, truth, and sacrificial commitment. Whether we lead a family, a parish, a classroom, or a community, we are reminded that true Christian leadership is not about control or recognition, but about service, fidelity, and the willingness to speak the truth in love.
Finally, as we keep going in anticipation of the the renewal of the Spirit in us, let our minds be fixed not on the challenges that may engulf us rather in the risen Christ who is our Saviour.
+ May the Lord bless His words in our hearts both now and forevermore. Amen
© ARCHIVE 04062025
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