💖 HOMILY - MAY 5 💖

First Reading - Acts 6:8-15

Gospel - John 6:22-29

Selfishness is a vice with which we all grapple every day as Christians. It often creeps into our relationships with one another—and even into our relationship with God. The readings of today counsel us to overcome selfishness in our approach to God and to purify our intentions in seeking Him.

The gospel passage offers a beautiful insight into the purpose of seeking Jesus. The crowd was intent on finding Him after witnessing the miracle of the multiplication of bread. Yet their purpose in seeking Jesus was driven merely by a material desire for easy access to food—a selfish motive—rather than a recognition of the sign and belief in the one who performed it. Jesus challenges their shallow understanding and redirects them toward a higher purpose: to believe in Him as the one sent by God. He exhorts them to seek the food that endures for eternal life—His words and His flesh—moving them from material craving to spiritual nourishment.

The first reading shows us what happens when someone truly believes in Jesus and is sustained by the spiritual food He offers. Stephen stands out as an exemplary figure, filled with the Holy Spirit and performing great signs in the name of Jesus. Though he faced strong opposition, no one could withstand the wisdom and power of his speech, for God’s Spirit accompanied and guided him in everything.

Dear friends, we all seek Jesus in our lives, especially through prayer. But it is important to reflect on the purpose behind our seeking. Too often, we treat prayer like a magic wand—approaching God only when we want something, especially material things or relief from difficulties. This is not wrong in itself, but if it becomes the only reason we seek God, then our faith risks becoming shallow and self-centered. Just like the crowd in the gospel, we may be chasing the gift rather than the giver.

Jesus calls us today to move from a materialistic approach to a spiritual one—to seek not just His blessings but His very self. Let our moments of prayer be opportunities for deep intimacy with God, not merely lists of requests. When we seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, as Jesus reminds us, “all these things will be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33).

Those who seek Jesus with the right purpose will find strength to face every situation in life, because the Holy Spirit will accompany and empower them. Stephen is a powerful example of such a person—courageous, wise, and unshaken, even in the face of persecution. Believing in Jesus and living according to His word is not always easy, and we will face challenges, but God's Spirit will give us the strength to persevere.

Let us pray today for the grace to seek Jesus with pure hearts and right intentions. May our relationship with Him be driven not by selfish desires, but by a deep hunger for His presence, His truth, and His will.

May the Spirit guide us to seek what truly endures.