May 22, 2025 Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 15: 7-21; John 15: 9-11
The first reading is a pivotal passage revealing the Church’s early struggle to define the essentials of faith and maintain unity amidst diversity. The leaders grappled with the issue of circumcision for Gentile converts. Key figures like Peter, Paul, Barnabas, and James collectively affirmed that salvation comes through faith in Jesus Christ alone, not through ritual observances. This moment shaped the identity of the Church, emphasizing inclusivity and unity.
Peter’s speech, supported by James through a prophetic reference from the Book of Amos (9:11–12), dismantled misconceptions among the believers. Interestingly, the sensitivities of the Jewish believers were also considered. While affirming salvation by faith, the council asked the Gentiles to abstain from idolatry, sexual immorality, eating strangled animals, and consuming blood. This decision highlights the importance of balancing truth and pastoral sensitivity.
It presents a challenge to the Church today: to discern between what is essential and non-essential to the faith. This spirit of discernment must continue to inspire us to pursue unity while holding fast to the values of the Gospel.
The Gospel passage today invites us into a dynamic relationship where divine love, active obedience, and lasting joy come together. Martin Hogan notes that God’s love transcends human distinctions, welcoming everyone into a genuine relationship. This divine love is a free gift and the foundation of our identity.
Jesus links love to obedience when He says, “Remain in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love.” He then speaks of true joy — the kind that emerges when we extend His love to others. Great figures like Mother Teresa, Pope John Paul II, and Pope Francis embodied this love through service to the marginalized. Even small acts of kindness become channels of divine joy.
Call to Action for Catholic Living:
- Let the joy of Christ flow through you, becoming a beacon of hope in this fractured world.
- Bring into your community the spirit of discernment to navigate complex issues.
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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