Short Homily: Friday of the Fifth Week of Easter

📖 Readings:

  • Acts 15:22–31 – “It has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…”

  • Psalm 57:8–9, 10–12 – “I will praise you among the peoples, O Lord.”

  • John 15:12–17 – “Love one another as I have loved you.”



😄 Introduction

I once asked a group of young people, “What is love?” One confidently answered, “Father, love is when my mother puts aside the last piece of chicken for me.” I said, “That's true love—but make sure you do the dishes afterwards!”
Love isn’t just romantic or sentimental. As Jesus reminds us today—it’s sacrificial.

📖 The Word of God

In John 15, Jesus says: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.” This kind of love is not based on convenience, mood, or mutual benefit. It’s rooted in God’s very nature—a self-giving, others-seeking, foot-washing kind of love.
He continues: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” These aren’t just nice words. Jesus lived them—on the cross.

In Acts 15, the early Church shows us what love looks like in leadership: listening, collaborating, and discerning the will of God together, especially when facing disagreement. And that’s good news—even in our polarised and noisy world, the Spirit still speaks through us, not just to us.

🍞 Eucharist

As we come to the Eucharist, we’re drawn into this same love. The altar is not just a table of remembrance; it's a daily school of sacrificial love. Jesus gives Himself fully. And in return, He asks the same of us.

❓ Question for Reflection

Who is God asking me to love more deeply today—even if it’s uncomfortable?

🧭 Daily Practical Application

Today, let’s love actively:

  • Visit someone who is lonely.

  • Send an encouraging message to someone who’s struggling.

  • Forgive someone—even if they haven’t asked.
    These small acts build the kind of Church Jesus envisioned.

🌍 For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

To anyone feeling unloved, unheard, or tired of trying—remember: You are chosen, not forgotten. Jesus says, “I have called you friends.” You are not alone. And you don’t have to earn this love—it’s freely given.

⛪ What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

This Jubilee Year of Hope calls us to build bridges, not fences. Start a simple prayer group. Reconnect with someone you've lost touch with. Volunteer at a shelter or parish outreach. Bring hope where it’s missing.

🇿🇦 South African Touch

In our Mzansi spirit of ubuntu—“I am because we are”—today's Gospel speaks powerfully. Imagine a South Africa where we all tried to love with the heart of Christ: less violence, more healing; less suspicion, more community.

💬 Inspiration Quote

“People may forget what you said, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” — Maya Angelou

🕊️ Conclusion

So, let’s walk forward as pilgrims of hope—not because it’s easy, but because love is our mission. And in Christ, love always wins.

🙏 Short Prayer

Lord Jesus, teach me to love as You love. Help me to be a friend to the forgotten, a light to the weary, and a sign of Your hope. Make me a builder of bridges in this Jubilee Year. Amen.

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