Short Homily for Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter

📖 Readings:

  • Acts 15:7–21

  • Psalm 96:1–2a, 2b–3, 10 – “Proclaim his marvellous deeds to all the nations.”

  • John 15:9–11 – “Remain in my love.”



😄 Introduction 

A little girl once asked her catechism teacher, “If Jesus wants us to love everybody, does that include my annoying brother too?” The teacher smiled and said, “Especially him!”
It’s funny how the hardest people to love are the ones closest to us—family, friends, even parishioners! Yet Jesus doesn’t give us a choice: “Remain in my love.” And that love, dear brothers and sisters, is meant to extend to everyone—even the ones who test our patience the most!

📖 The Word of God

Jesus, in the Gospel today, invites us to remain in His love just as He remains in the Father’s love. It’s not a passive thing; it’s an active choice. His commandments—rooted in love—are not restrictions but pathways to joy. When Jesus says, “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you,” He is promising complete joy, not a temporary fix.

In Acts, Peter reminds us that God “made no distinction” between Jews and Gentiles. The early Church faced division, yet the Spirit was leading them towards unity. We are reminded: God’s love is inclusive, expansive, and powerful.

✝️ Eucharist

In this Eucharist, we come not as perfect people, but as branches seeking life from the Vine. It is in this sacrament that we are reminded: we are loved, forgiven, and called.

❓ Question for Reflection

Who is the person God is calling you to love today—especially someone you find difficult to love?

🛠️ Daily Practical Application

Show love through a simple act of kindness—a call, a WhatsApp message, a plate of food, or a word of encouragement. It might change someone’s entire day.

🌧️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

If you are struggling, hold on. Jesus doesn’t just command love—He accompanies us in loving. Remain in Him. Speak to Him. Let His Word steady your steps.

🎉 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Be an ambassador of joy and unity. Listen more. Reconcile broken relationships. Support the excluded. Ask yourself: How can I be a living sign of God’s mercy and love in South Africa today?

🌟 Inspiration: Pilgrims of Hope

As Pilgrims of Hope, we walk in faith even when the road is uphill. South Africa needs believers who are brave enough to love radically, forgive freely, and serve joyfully.

🧭 Inspiration Quote:
“Remain in love—not in comfort zones. Only then can the Church shine in dark places.”

🤲 Conclusion and Short Prayer

May you remain in His love, walk in His joy, and share His peace.

Let us pray:
Lord Jesus,
Help me today to remain in Your love.
When I am tired, be my strength.
When I am unsure, be my guide.
May my life proclaim Your marvellous deeds—
in word, in silence, and in service.
Amen.

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