Short Homily for Saturday of the Third Week of Easter

Theme: “You Can’t Silence the Gospel”

Readings: Acts 9:31–42 | Psalm 116:12–13, 14–15, 16–17 | John 6:60–69

Many years ago, a nun taught catechism to a group of restless teens. One bright boy asked, “Sister, if Jesus said we must eat His Body, why aren’t we all cannibals?” Before she could explain, another chirped, “Maybe that’s why Mass is only one hour!” Ah, the honesty of young minds! But behind their humour was deep curiosity—just like the disciples in today’s Gospel who struggled to understand Jesus’ words.

Today’s Gospel (John 6:60–69) shows the disciples grappling with Jesus’ claim: “Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.” Some find it too much. “This is a hard teaching,” they say, and they walk away.

But Peter stays. He speaks for all Pilgrims of Hope when he says, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.” That moment is not about understanding — it’s about trust.

In the First Reading, we meet Peter again — healing Aeneas and raising Tabitha. These are not acts of a man with perfect comprehension, but a man surrendered to Christ’s power. The Church in South Africa, like in the Acts of the Apostles, needs hope, boldness, and a few more "Peters" — faithful even when things are hard to understand.

Eucharist

This “hard teaching” is the very heart of the Eucharist. We’re not eating flesh in a physical sense — we’re being invited to deep communion with Jesus. In every Mass, He says: “Trust Me.” We reply like Peter: “Lord, to whom shall we go?”

Question for Reflection

When I struggle to understand or accept something in my faith, do I walk away — or do I stay with Jesus and ask for deeper trust?

Daily Practical Application

Try this today: When you find something difficult — a conversation, a setback, or even a Church teaching — whisper a small prayer like Peter’s: “Lord, to whom shall I go?” Then pause. He is with you, especially in confusion.

For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

To those burdened by pain, joblessness, or family tension: Jesus sees your struggle. He doesn't reject you when you question. He welcomes your honesty. The Eucharist is not a reward for the holy — it’s food for the hungry.

What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Let this Jubilee be a time of trust. Volunteer at a parish project. Visit the sick. Feed the hungry. Trust that small acts ripple across the Church like Tabitha’s good deeds. Let your hands be Christ’s healing touch.

ZA

Our country has its share of doubt and difficulty. But from Khayelitsha to Kimberley, faithful men and women say like Peter: “You have the words of life.”
Let’s be witnesses that hope is stronger than headlines, and love louder than complaints.

Inspiration Quote:
“Faith does not remove the questions; it anchors you when the answers are delayed.”

As we continue this Easter journey, let us hold fast to Christ, the Bread of Life — even when the road is confusing. Stay with Him. Trust Him. Walk as Pilgrims of Hope.

Lord Jesus, when Your Word confuses me or challenges me, help me stay close to You.
Give me faith like Peter’s and a heart open to Your mystery.
In every Eucharist, renew my courage.
May I live this day with joy, humility, and hope.
Amen.

Morning Prayer: A Pilgrim’s Prayer of Trust

Lord Jesus Christ,
as I rise to greet this new day, I echo the words of Peter:
“Lord, to whom shall I go? You have the words of eternal life.”

When the journey feels long, or Your ways hard to understand,
give me the grace to remain with You —
not because I always understand,
but because I trust in Your love.

Help me today to be Your witness in word and deed.
Let me bring healing where there is hurt, hope where there is fear,
and joy where there is heaviness.

Make me a true Pilgrim of Hope,
walking with others who also seek light in the darkness.
I offer this day to You, Lord — my work, my rest, my joys, and my struggles.

Keep me close to You in every step.
Amen.