May 05, 2025 Monday of the Third Week of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 6: 8-15; John 6:22-29
In the first reading today, we witness the growing tension between the early Christian community and the religious authorities. They argue with Stephen, one of the deacons, but cannot withstand his wisdom. They resort to false accusations, but nothing succeeds. His faithfulness to God leads to persecution, yet he remains calm and radiant, reflecting God’s glory. How do you handle opposition when standing for justice and truth? Are you prepared to face false accusations with grace?
Stephen, initially appointed for practical service at table, steps out boldly to preach the Gospel. This shows that the integration of diaconal service and the proclamation of the Gospel are inseparable in the kingdom of God.
The crowd in John 6 tries to track Jesus after witnessing the multiplication of the loaves and fish. They are eager for another free meal, but Jesus sees straight to the heart of their hunger. He says, "Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life" (John 6:27).
The expectation of the crowd is that Jesus should satisfy their hunger, perform miracles of healing, and bring about political liberation.
Similarly, we seek Him in times of struggles, crises, and trials; we pray for our earthly needs and sometimes bargain for our comforts and conveniences. But Jesus redirects us towards something that endures — from earthly needs to spiritual nourishment.
It is an honest
question from the people, "What must we do to perform the works of God?" (John 6:28).
Today, we too look up to Him and ask the same question. His simple reply is: "Believe in the one He has sent" (John 6:29).
In other words, faith is not just belief but a relationship — a trust that shapes our life.
Call to Action for Catholic Living:
- Let us seek Jesus, not for what He gives, but for who He is.
- Let our search, our hunger, lead us to deeper love, solid faith, and the fullness of life that comes from Christ alone.
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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