The Living God Who Dwells With Us
In today’s readings, we witness two powerful revelations: the futility of idolatry and the promise of divine indwelling. These passages from Acts and the Gospel of John are not only rich in historical drama but speak to the heart of Christian identity—who we worship and how we live in response.
In Acts 14:5–18, Paul and Barnabas flee persecution only to encounter a different kind of danger: misplaced worship. After witnessing the miraculous healing of a man lame from birth, the crowd in Lystra is overcome—not with repentance or faith in the God of Israel—but with awe rooted in myth. They call Barnabas “Zeus” and Paul “Hermes,” ready to offer sacrifices to them. The apostles are horrified.
“We are of the same nature as you,” Paul pleads. “Turn from these idols to the living God.”
This moment is a striking reminder that miracles, though powerful, do not guarantee faith. The crowd sees power but misinterprets it. Paul redirects them to the Creator, the one true God who has always left witnesses: the rain, the fruitful harvests, the joy in their hearts.
Here, we are invited to reflect—how often do we misunderstand God’s action in our lives? Do we stop at the surface of blessings or turn our gratitude into worship of the Giver?
In John 14:21–26, Jesus offers a deeper intimacy. Those who love Him and keep His commandments receive not just knowledge or power, but the very presence of God:
“We will come to him and make our dwelling with him.”
Unlike the crowds who thought God must descend as a distant figure, Jesus reveals something radically different. God desires to dwell within us. Through the Holy Spirit—the Advocate—we are taught, reminded, and sanctified from the inside out.
This is not abstract theology. It’s personal. The living God does not wait for our perfection to arrive. He comes to dwell with those who love Him—even imperfectly—because they keep trying to live His word.
This Easter season reminds us: we are not only saved from false worship; we are saved for communion.
When we choose the living God over the idols of convenience, pride, or fear, we make room for the divine presence to take root. As Paul reminded the Gentiles, and as Jesus promises us, God is not far off. He’s close. He is here. And He dwells with those who love Him.
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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.