April 28, 2024
Abiding in Christ: Bearing Fruit through Love
1st Reading - Acts 9:26-31
2nd Reading - 1 Jn 3:18-24
Gospel - Jn 15:1-8

In the first reading from Acts, we witness the transformation of Saul, who was once a persecutor of the Church but is now accepted by the disciples in Jerusalem. Despite initial hesitation, Barnabas vouches for Saul, and he is welcomed into the community of believers. Saul, later known as Paul, begins preaching boldly about Jesus, and the Church experiences a time of peace and growth throughout Judea, Galilee, and Samaria. This passage highlights the power of God to transform lives and the importance of community in nurturing and supporting one another in faith.

In the second reading from the First Letter of John, we are reminded of the central role of love and faith in the Christian life. John exhorts believers not to merely profess love with words but to demonstrate it through actions and in truth. He assures us that when our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God and receive from Him whatever we ask because we keep His commandments and do what pleases Him. This passage underscores the inseparable connection between love, faith, and obedience in our relationship with God.

In the Gospel according to John, Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches to illustrate the intimate relationship between Himself and His disciples. He declares Himself as the true vine, and His Father as the vinegrower who removes every branch that does not bear fruit. Jesus urges His followers to abide in Him, promising that those who remain in Him will bear much fruit, but apart from Him, they can do nothing. He emphasizes the necessity of abiding in His love and keeping His commandments, promising that by doing so, His disciples will glorify the Father and bear abundant fruit.

In summary, today's readings emphasize the importance of abiding in Christ, nurturing our relationship with Him through love, faith, and obedience. They remind us that as branches connected to the true vine, Jesus Christ, we are called to bear fruit in our lives, glorifying God and contributing to the growth of His kingdom.

Today, I will reflect on the depth of my relationship with Christ, examining whether I am truly abiding in Him and bearing fruit in my life. I will seek to deepen my love for God and others, demonstrating it through tangible actions and in accordance with His truth. I will also renew my commitment to obedience, striving to keep Christ's commandments and aligning my will with His, knowing that in doing so, I will bear abundant fruit for His glory.