Getting ourselves ready to celebrate the Eucharist on this Fifth Sunday of Easter, let’s be sure to pay attention to how the early Church was keeping Jesus’ memory alive by remaining a dynamic community, open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Notice how those early believers bore witness to Christ by their unity, their fidelity in worship, and their spirit of loving, humble service.
This weekend’s Gospel (John 14, 1-12) introduces Jesus as the Way to God, the Truth to be accepted, and the Life to be shared and lived. Are we willing to follow His way, embrace His truth, and live His life?
For reflection: When St. John Chrysostom was summoned before the Roman Emperor Arcadius and threatened with banishment, he replied, “You cannot banish me, for the world is my Father’s house.” “Then I will kill you,” exclaimed the Emperor angrily. “No, you cannot,” retorted Chrysostom, “because my life is hidden with Christ in God.” “Your treasures shall be confiscated,” the Emperor replied grimly. “Sir, you can’t do that because my treasures are in Heaven as my heart is there.” “I will drive you from your people, and you shall have no friends left,” threatened the Emperor. “That you cannot do either, sir, for I have a friend in Heaven who has said, ‘I will never leave you or forsake you.’” When Jesus says, “Do not let your hearts be troubled,” do we see where such a reassurance leads? To a willing testimony like that of St. John Chrysostom! Are we ready and willing to offer a similar testimony today?
