Short Homily – Friday of the Fourth Week of Easter

Theme: “Do not let your hearts be troubled – God is still at work!”
Readings: Acts 13:26-33; Psalm 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab; John 14:1-6

😄 Introduction 

A priest once told his congregation: “Jesus said, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life.’ But many of you only follow Him like you follow road signs—you see the direction, you nod, but then you turn wherever you like!”
 But today’s Gospel gives us direction and reassurance from the heart of Jesus Himself.

🔍  “I Am the Way”

Jesus tells His disciples, “Do not let your hearts be troubled... I go to prepare a place for you.” (John 14:1-3).
The disciples were confused and afraid, much like many of us today when we look at the state of the world—or even our own families and Church. But Jesus doesn’t leave them with fear. He points them to Himself: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.”
This isn’t just about going to heaven. It’s about how to live on earth. He is the way through our problems, the truth in a world of noise, and the life when things feel dead.

In Acts, Paul reminds us that God raised Jesus from the dead, fulfilling the ancient promises. So, the Gospel is not just history—it’s hope. Hope that God keeps His word, even when all seems lost.

✝️ Eucharist – The Table of the Way

At this Eucharist, Jesus doesn’t just tell us the way—He feeds us for the journey.
The same Christ who went to the Cross for us is here, living, present, and calling us by name.

❓ Question for Reflection

What fears or uncertainties are troubling your heart today?
Can you bring them to Jesus and trust that He is still “the Way” in this moment?

🛠️ Daily Practical Application

  • Take 5 minutes in silence today to simply sit with Jesus.

  • Whisper this prayer: “Jesus, show me the next step in your way.”

  • Be gentle to someone who is overwhelmed—it may be their only glimpse of God’s love today.

🌧️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

Maybe you feel like God has forgotten your address. Maybe nothing seems to be working out.
But hear this, South Africa: The tomb is still empty! That means the risen Christ is still on the move—yes, even in a township, a hospital ward, or an unemployed household.

🌍 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

The Jubilee invites us to renew hope. Try this:

  • Help someone return to Mass.

  • Volunteer in your parish, even just once a month.

  • Write a letter of forgiveness or blessing—begin the healing.

🌱 Inspiration – Pilgrims of Hope

You are not wandering without a map. You’re a Pilgrim of Hope.
You might not see the whole path, but you walk with Jesus, who is the path.

💬 Inspirational Quote

“Hope is not optimism. Hope is the stubborn belief that God is not done yet.” — South African Wisdom

🙏 

Let us not allow fear to paralyse our steps. Jesus is the Way. Let us walk with Him—together—as Pilgrims of Hope.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, You are the way when we are lost,
the truth when we are confused,
and the life when we feel defeated.
Help us walk in trust today.
Show us that your promises are alive in our lives,
and that the journey ahead is not empty—
because You are with us.
Amen.

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