💖 HOMILY - MAY 15 💖

First Reading - Acts 13:13-25

Gospel - John 13:16-20

As imitators of Jesus, we are guided and sustained by the Scriptures. They reveal what God expects from us as disciples of Christ. The readings today call us to live a life shaped by God’s promises, fulfilled in Jesus, and mirrored through our daily actions.

In the first reading, Paul preaches an encouraging message to his fellow Jews. His sermon carries a strong emphasis on the fulfillment of God’s promise in Jesus, the Messiah. Paul connects Jesus to the long history of the chosen people, showing how God’s plan unfolded through the ages. He reminds his listeners that even John the Baptist recognized Jesus as the one who was to come. Through this reflection, Paul urges them to see in Jesus the fulfillment of all that God had promised.

The Gospel passage today is a continuation of Jesus’ discourse after washing his disciples’ feet. It contains three key teachings.  

First, Jesus teaches that greatness in his Kingdom is marked by humility and sacrificial service. His act of washing the disciples’ feet is not just symbolic—it is a model for every believer to follow.  

Second, Jesus offers a response to betrayal. Even as he foretells Judas’ disloyalty by quoting Psalm 41:9, he responds not with anger or distance, but with a gesture of deep love—washing Judas’ feet and sharing bread with him.  

Third, Jesus affirms the importance of apostolic succession. To receive those he sends is to receive him, and in turn, the Father who sent him. This underlines the sacred mission given to the apostles and to all who continue their work.

Dear friends, the Scriptures we hear each day are not merely lessons from the past—they are divine encouragements for us to grow in faith and to recognize God's promises fulfilled in Jesus. Paul encouraged his listeners; the Church continues this mission today.

Today’s Gospel gives us three essential paths for Christian living:  

– A life of humble service and humility, modeled after Jesus who stooped to serve his disciples.  

– A life of reconciliation and mercy, as Jesus demonstrated even toward his betrayer.  

– A life that resembles Christ, not only in word but in action, becoming living witnesses of his message.

Let us ask for the grace to live according to God’s will—serving one another in humility, offering forgiveness where it is needed, and faithfully bearing the image of Christ in all we do.