Reflection Date: April 30, 2026 | Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter
Memorial of Saint Pius V, Pope, religious
Daily Readings: Acts 13:13-25; John 13:16-20
Children of God:
One of the remarkable moments in recent Church history was the historic pastoral visit of Pope Leo XIV to Africa, an 11-day Apostolic Journey to Africa from April 13–23, 2026. The trip included stops in four countries: Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.
It was not just a diplomatic journey but a mission of presence, dialogue, and encouragement.
From interreligious meetings to Eucharistic celebrations, every moment reflected a shepherd close to his people.
In fact, on the first day of his visit to Algeria, he was warmly welcomed by both Christians and Muslims.
There was a simple yet touching anecdote when a group of children approached him with handmade drawings and songs.
Instead of rushing through the program, he paused, smiled, and spent time with them.
That moment showed a leader willing to bend down and connect.
Throughout the visit, his gestures spoke louder than his speeches.
He reminded the world that leadership is not about distance but closeness.
In the gospel of John, Jesus spoke to his disciples about the relationship between a master and a servant.
He reminded them that no servant is greater than his master and that those who are sent must reflect the one who sent them.
His words followed the powerful act of washing the disciples’ feet, a gesture of humility and service.
What are our inspirations for today?
First, true leadership is expressed through humble service.
Jesus taught his disciples not just through words but through actions.
By washing their feet, he showed that greatness is found in serving others.
Jesus said, “No servant is greater than his master nor any messenger greater than the one who sent him” (John 13:16).
Meaning, discipleship is about imitating Christ’s humility.
In our daily lives, we are often tempted to seek recognition and importance.
Yet the example of Christ invites us to serve quietly and sincerely.
Whether in small acts or big responsibilities, service becomes the true measure of greatness.
Second, representing Christ means living out his message in our actions.
Jesus reminded his disciples that being sent carries responsibility.
Their actions would reflect the one who sent them.
Jesus said, “Whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me” (John 13:20).
In our world today, people encounter Christ not only through words but through the lives of believers.
Our kindness, patience, and compassion become signs of his presence.
When we live out his message, we make Christ visible to others.
We can reflect on these questions in our hearts. Do I serve others with humility in my daily life?
How do my actions reflect Christ to the people around me? And in what ways can I become a more faithful witness of the one who sent me?
Children of God:
The example of Christ continues to challenge our understanding of leadership and greatness.
It invites us to go beyond titles and roles.
May we carry the message of Christ not only in words but in actions.
And may our lives become a living testimony of the one who calls and sends us.
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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