Fifth Sunday of Easter
Acts 9:26-31 | Ps. 22:26-27, 28, 30, 31-32 | 1 John 3:18-24 | John 15:1-8
Jesus compares Himself to a vine and ourselves as the branches. We know that all our vegetables, fruits, plants of all sorts need pruning in order for them to grow and bear much fruit. Likewise, we need pruning to grow in the life of Jesus. Jesus knows us as indeed God knows us. Jesus knows the areas of our lives where we need to change and to give over control, etc. So as a good vine dresser, Jesus comes to invite us to that growth which will bring us closer to God. John, in the epistle, tells us that the one commandment we are all called to grow in is in the Commandment to love both in our word and in our speech. The Acts of the Apostles teach us that the young community lived in that love for one another and experienced peace. They lived in God’s love by sharing that love with and for one another. The Holy Spirit enabled this community to do so. By their lives of love and service, others were inspired and drew close and the Church increased.
Today, ask Christ for the grace to grow in love. Ask Christ to show you where you might be more loving with your family, friends, and neighbors. Determine a deed or action you can take in order to show that love.