Short homily -Thursday of the Third Week of Easter, with all your requested elements:

"Drawn to Jesus, Fed for the Journey"



Readings:

  • Acts 8:26–40

  • Psalm 66:8–9, 16–17, 20

  • John 6:44–51

There was once a man in Limpopo who thought GPS was the greatest invention ever — until it led him straight into a river. “But it said go straight,” he insisted. Sometimes we trust tools and people more than we trust the Lord who never misleads. Today, Jesus says, “No one can come to me unless drawn by the Father.” GPS might get you lost, but God's grace draws you straight to life!

In John 6, Jesus reveals a deep truth: He is the living bread that came down from heaven. Not just a nice idea or inspiration — but food for the soul. Notice the verbs: drawn, believe, eat, live. Faith is not passive; it's movement, hunger, and satisfaction. God takes the first step — drawing us — and we respond by choosing to feed on His Word and His Body.

In Acts 8, the Spirit sends Philip to a stranger — the Ethiopian official. The man is already reading Isaiah, but needs help to understand. Philip doesn’t just explain; he baptises him into joy. That’s how the Spirit works: God uses people to lead others to Christ. And what joy follows!

Eucharist

Every Mass is an Emmaus journey. Christ explains the Scriptures and breaks the Bread. The same Jesus who said “I am the living bread” gives Himself to us in the Eucharist. He feeds us not with ideas, but with His very self — food that sustains us through life’s deserts.

Question for Reflection

What is drawing you closer to Christ today — or what’s standing in the way? Is it fear, pain, distraction, or comfort? And who might God be sending you to — like He sent Philip — to help them meet Jesus?

Daily Practical Application

Make today a “yes” day to God's nudges. Whether it's starting with prayer, helping someone in silence, or just being present without your phone — say yes to being drawn. And, like Philip, be open to sharing your faith even in unexpected moments.

To those struggling — in Soweto, Mamelodi, or rural Mpumalanga — know this: God's grace is not limited by location or situation. The same Spirit who sent Philip into the desert still speaks today. God meets us even in our confusion, even when we feel like outsiders. You are seen. You are drawn.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

During the Jubilee Year of Hope, become a “Philip” for someone. Be someone who explains the Gospel simply — by your words or how you love. Invite someone to Mass. Bring someone to adoration. Share how Jesus feeds you. The Church needs gentle guides, not spiritual celebrities.

South Africa is hungry — not just for food, but for truth, belonging, and peace. Jesus is not a luxury; He is life. And He chooses ordinary people to carry Him into taxis, clinics, classrooms, and kitchens.

💬 Inspiration Quote:

“The Spirit moves faster than Wi-Fi. When your heart is open, even in the desert, He'll make you a carrier of Christ.”

Jesus draws us. The Spirit sends us. The Eucharist feeds us. Like the Ethiopian official, may we go on our way rejoicing.

Lord Jesus, Living Bread,

draw me closer to You today.
Feed me with Your Word and Your presence.
Send me like Philip — to share Your joy.
In this Jubilee Year,
may I be a Pilgrim of Hope,
a light in dark places,
and a bearer of Your love. Amen.

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