Readings: Acts 14:21b–27 | Revelation 21:1–5a | John 13:31–33a, 34–35
The Easter season is a time of deep joy and spiritual renewal. It brings us face to face with the Risen Lord, reminding us that our lives are rooted in a relationship with Jesus—a relationship that finds meaning through love and service, not in isolation, but in community.
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on a simple but challenging command: Love one another as I have loved you. Jesus speaks these words during the Last Supper, just after washing the feet of his disciples. This act was not just a gesture of humility but a radical model of love through service. To follow Jesus means to serve others, not from a distance, but with our hands, our time, and our hearts.
In the First Reading, we hear about Paul and Barnabas. Their mission wasn’t easy—they faced rejection, hardship, and persecution. Yet, they pressed on with joy, strengthening the young Christian communities and encouraging them to remain faithful. This is the kind of love that doesn’t give up, even when it’s costly. Love that endures hardship becomes a witness.
The Second Reading, from the Book of Revelation, lifts our eyes to a vision of hope—a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with his people and wipe away every tear. This is not just a promise for the future, but a vision that should shape how we live now. Every act of love, every choice to serve, every moment of compassion, helps build that holy city even here on earth.
In the Gospel, Jesus says, “Now the Son of Man is glorified.” What’s striking is that he says this just before his betrayal and crucifixion. For Jesus, glory doesn’t come through power or status, but through self-giving love. That’s what makes his love divine—he gives all of himself. And he calls us to love in the same way.
This is more than a nice idea. It’s the very mark of a Christian. “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Not by our church attendance or our religious knowledge, but by the way we treat each other—with mercy, kindness, forgiveness, and generosity.
We live in a world that is hungry for this kind of love. A world where many feel unseen, unheard, and unloved. But Jesus reminds us: love is not just a feeling. It’s a way of living. It’s about choosing to care, to listen, to serve—even when it’s inconvenient.
So, as we continue this Easter journey, let’s ask ourselves:
Are we known for our love?
Do we love like Jesus—with patience, humility, and joy?
Are we building a community where others can encounter the Risen Christ in us?
Let’s pray for the grace to follow his command—not just with our words, but with our lives. That’s how we glorify God. That’s how we show the world that we are truly his disciples.