Homily for the Sixth Sunday of Easter

📖 Theme: “Remain in My Love”

Readings:

  • Acts 10:25–26, 34–35, 44–48

  • Psalm 98:1, 2–3, 3–4 — “The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.”

  • 1 John 4:7–10

  • John 15:9–17 — “Love one another as I have loved you.”



😂 Introduction 

Many years ago, I overheard a young altar server trying to explain today’s Gospel to his friend: “Jesus said we must love one another—but I think He didn’t know my brother!” Well, that might be how some of us feel about neighbours, in-laws, or even fellow parishioners!

📖 The Word of God

The Gospel from John is a continuation of Jesus’ farewell discourse. He gives His disciples—His friends—a final commandment: “Remain in my love” and “Love one another as I have loved you.”

Notice the shift—He doesn’t say, “Love one another as you love yourself,” but as I have loved you. That’s divine, sacrificial, generous love—the kind that welcomes the outsider (like Cornelius in Acts), breaks down barriers, and builds communities.

In 1 John, we hear clearly: "Whoever does not love does not know God, for God is love." That means our spirituality is only as strong as our love for others—especially those hardest to love.

🕊️ Eucharist

As we prepare for the Eucharist, we remember this is not just a ritual. It is a participation in divine love. We do not earn God’s love—we receive it, and we are called to reflect it in our homes, parishes, and yes—even on WhatsApp groups and taxi queues!

❓Question for Reflection

  • Whom in my life have I struggled to love?
  • How might God be inviting me this week to love that person in a more Christlike way?

🛠️ Daily Practical Application

Today, make one intentional act of love:

  • Call a lonely friend.

  • Forgive a wound.

  • Share your meal with someone in need.
    In the words of St. Teresa of Calcutta: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

🛡️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

If you're going through hardship—financially, emotionally, spiritually—remember: God’s love does not skip your address. You are not forgotten. The Spirit is your Advocate. And the Church walks with you.

🌍 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

  • Love boldly.

  • Reconcile with someone.

  • Volunteer for one good cause.

  • Participate more fully in Mass and the Sacraments.
    This is our Jubilee: a time of renewal and mission—not just for the Church, but for South Africa.

🇿🇦 

In a nation often divided by race, class, and history, Jesus invites us to build bridges of love. Imagine a South Africa where every Christian lives this Gospel seriously—what a revolution of grace that would be!

💬 Inspirational Quote

"The measure of love is to love without measure." — St Augustine

🕯️ Conclusion

Love isn’t just a feeling—it’s a decision. And Jesus made the ultimate decision to love us even unto death. Let’s do likewise, in our own small and courageous ways.

🙏 Short Prayer

Lord Jesus,
help me to remain in Your love,
to love not just in words but in action.
Teach me to see You in the face of every person I meet.
May this day be a Jubilee of mercy,
and may I be a pilgrim of hope in a wounded world.
Amen.

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