Love One Another

Readings for Sunday, April 28 — Fifth Sunday of Easter

Acts 14:21-27; Psalm 145:8-9, 10-11, 12-13; Revelation 21:1-5a; John 13:31-33a, 34-35

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • Paul and Barnabas are on the move sharing the story of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus with everyone they meet.  They bring wondrous news to Antioch of how God is moving in the hearts of the Gentiles (non-Jews) and giving them faith in the Risen Lord. The community which was initially Jewish in identity has become one of increasing plurality.  This change was one that fostered intense theological debate.  It involved soul-searching.  In the end, it provided the foundation for what we mean when we call ourselves a “Catholic” (universal) Church.  What can we learn from this time of transformation in the Early Church?  How does it apply to the Church today?
  • John is blessed with an image of a new Jerusalem… one in which God and the entire human race dwell together for eternity in an intimate and loving relationship.  What is John describing when he speaks of this “new Jerusalem?”
  • Jesus tells his friends that people will know they are his disciples by the love they show one another.  What ministries does your parish or campus ministry offer to help make sure people in your community feel loved and cared for?  If you had to design such a ministry, what would be its mission?