Sixth Sunday of Easter
First Reading: Acts 16:9-15
Psalm Reading: Psalm 67
Second Reading: Revelation 21:1-2, 22-27
Gospel Reading: John 14:23-29
Homily by Fr. Romie Jun Peñalosa
This season of Easter, let us rejoice in the knowledge that Christ has been resurrected from the dead and brought us newness of life. This newness of life means not only walking in love, but also living in peace.
We need to understand that this new life God has given us is a life where we can experience true peace. This peace surpasses all problems, conflicts and circumstances of life. Perfect peace comes from God and this is seen and lived in a new life.
So, how do we live out that newness of life? How do we live out the love of God in our life? Keep the word of God. “The man who keeps the word of God will keep his mind focused on God always and will allow him to experience the love of God.”
The kind of peace that Christ brought us is not circumstantial. It does not depend on the circumstances of the world. It does not mean the absence of problems and conflicts. We can see this in the life of Christ, where every day in His ministry, He was bombarded by so many problems, enemies kept on attacking Him, storms came along His way… yet even in that storm He slept peacefully. Knowing that God loves us- there’s always peace in our heart.
Further, Father Jun quoted the following tips from Primate Dick on how to keep the word of God.
- Meditate on His words. To meditate means not just to read but keep on thinking about what He said.
- Confess the word. Speak the word every day. Align your thoughts to the thoughts of God.
- Do the word. As often as possible, do what He is telling you.
“The effort comes from us, but the ability to keep the word of God comes from the Holy Spirit.”
So let us not be afraid of how difficult the work is and how big the storm is along the way. For God promised a great Helper for us who gives true and perfect peace!
Recap by:
MERCY DE LA CRUZ-ESPIRITU
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