💖 HOMILY - APRIL 2 💖

First Reading - Isaiah 49:8-15

Second Reading - John 5:17-30

We are all God's children. This means that our beginning is in God, and ultimately, we return to Him. Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the motherly care of God, who lovingly guides us through our journey on earth. Our response to this care should be one of loving obedience, just as children respond to a caring parent.  

The first reading presents God's promise of salvation and His compassionate concern for His people. Writing at the end of the Babylonian Exile, the prophet envisions the Lord leading His people back to Zion. Unlike their first journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, which was marked by hardships, this return will be filled with abundance—grazing on every hilltop, drinking from springs of water. This message brings joy and consolation, sealed by God’s most tender promise: *"Even if a mother forgets her child, I will never forget you."* God's love is deeper than a mother's love, and His care extends beyond Israel to all humanity.  

In today’s Gospel, Jesus responds to accusations from the Jews, who charge Him with breaking the Sabbath by healing and with blasphemy for calling God His Father. Jesus makes a profound declaration—He is one with the Father in all things. Yet, even in this perfect unity, He remains obedient. His entire life is an act of surrender to the Father’s will, showing that true sonship is defined by obedience. Jesus also demonstrates His divine authority by performing works that belong solely to God, such as raising the dead and granting eternal life. He reveals that those who hear and believe His words will receive life, while those who reject Him will face judgment.  

Dear friends, the first reading reminds us that as God’s children, we enjoy His special love and care. Like a mother who watches over her child, God is intimately present in our daily lives, guiding and protecting us. He never abandons us in our struggles but carries us through them with tenderness. We must never distance ourselves from this loving embrace.  

As Christians, we are called to reflect this identity as God's children by surrendering ourselves to His will. Just as Jesus found His identity in obedience to the Father, we too are truly God’s children when we follow His will. Obedience to God is not a burden but a path to true freedom and purpose.  

Let us pray that we may remain faithful children of God by seeking and obeying His will in our lives.