Love That Endures: The Way to the New Jerusalem
In today’s readings, we walk alongside Paul and Barnabas, glimpse the new Jerusalem, and hear Jesus’ final command: love one another. These powerful scriptures call us not only to faith but to enduring love in the face of hardship.
In the First Reading (Acts 14:21–27), Paul and Barnabas complete their missionary journey by revisiting the communities they helped establish. They remind the disciples that “it is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” The early Church wasn’t built on comfort but on perseverance, trust, and the power of the Spirit. This reminder is critical today: authentic Christian life involves sacrifice, service, and steadfast encouragement of one another.
In Revelation 21:1–5a, John offers a vision of eternal hope: “a new heaven and a new earth.” God promises to dwell with us, to wipe every tear from our eyes. The passing of the “old order” assures us that all suffering and mourning will end. This is not only a future hope but a present reality — God’s Spirit is already renewing our hearts and communities.
The Gospel (John 13:31–35) presents the heart of Christian discipleship. In the moment of betrayal, Jesus turns to his disciples and gives them a new commandment: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another.” This love is not sentimental or shallow; it is sacrificial, forgiving, and enduring — the kind of love that glorifies God.
As we continue through the Easter season, may we commit to this love:
– A love that strengthens others in faith
– A love that believes in the promise of a new creation
– A love that reveals Christ in the world
This is how the world will know we are His. This is how we walk toward the new Jerusalem — together, in love.
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Did You Pray Today?
Daily prayer is a powerful way to strengthen your faith, find peace, and invite God’s presence into your life. Even a few moments of prayer can bring clarity, comfort, and spiritual renewal. Whether you are starting your day, taking a break, or preparing for sleep, these short yet meaningful prayers help you stay connected to God.
Take a moment now to pray:
The Sign of the Cross
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
The Our Father (The Lord’s Prayer)
Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary
Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee.
Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus.
Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.
A Daily Habit of Prayer: These prayers take less than a minute, yet they bring us closer to God each day. Keep prayer at the center of your life and experience His love and guidance.
Walking in Faith, Growing in Grace
Every day is an opportunity to draw closer to God. In prayer, in scripture, and in the moments of stillness, He speaks to our hearts. Faith is not just about knowing—it’s about living, trusting, and walking in His light.
Through life’s joys and challenges, we are called to remain steadfast, to seek Him in all things, and to reflect His love in our words and actions. Even the smallest acts of faith— a whispered prayer, a kind word, a moment of gratitude— bring us deeper into His presence.
May this space be a source of encouragement, reflection, and renewal for you. Wherever you are on your journey, know that God is with you. Keep the faith, stay rooted in prayer, and continue seeking His truth.