Sixth Sunday of Easter
Acts 15:1-2, 22-29 | Ps. 67:2-3, 5-6 | Rev. 21:10-14, 22-23 | Jn. 14:23-29
The readings today teach us that Jesus was not going to be physically around much longer. When Jesus goes, He will send the Holy Spirit to guide and direct the apostles, the Church, and each of us. We see this vividly in the Acts of the Apostles. There is a great dissension over the requirement for Gentiles to be circumcised in order to become Christian. Paul and Barnabas defend their position. Peter and the other leaders listen, pray and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit not to require circumcision. They have listened to Jesus and have learned to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit. They also respond to the people with compassion by sending other with Paul and Barnabas to relay their message
In the Gospel, Jesus tells the apostles that He is going to the Father and that they should rejoice that He is doing so because the Father is greater than He. Jesus also tells them not to let their hearts be troubled or afraid. The Holy Spirit will teach them everything they need to know.