Short Homily: Wednesday of the Seventh Week of Easter

Theme: "Faithfulness in the Final Hour: Jesus Prays for Us"
Readings: Acts 20:28–38 | Psalm 68:29–30, 33–36 | John 17:11b–19

😄 Introduction 

A priest once told his parishioners, “When I pray for you, I ask God to make you holy. When I pray for myself, I ask Him to make you less naughty.” One old woman shouted, “Father, that’s a prayer God must answer — you need us more than we need you!”

📖 Expanded Exegesis

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is not preaching, healing, or performing miracles. He is praying — not for Himself, but for His disciples. He knows He’s leaving, and His concern is not His own safety but their mission and unity.

He says, “Holy Father, keep them in Your name... so that they may be one as we are one.” (John 17:11). This is a deeply moving moment: Jesus sees the dangers ahead, the wolves among the flock, and yet entrusts His disciples to the care of the Father.

In Acts, Paul echoes this same love. He reminds the elders of Ephesus that he served the Lord “with all humility,” and warns them to keep watch over the flock. Paul’s parting is tearful, honest, and full of blessing — a pastoral heart to the end.

🍞 Eucharist

At the Eucharist, we too are held in that prayer of Jesus. We are strengthened and sent again into the world — just as the early disciples were. In this meal, the Lord does not only feed us; He trusts us with His mission.

❓Question for Reflection

Am I aware that Jesus is praying for me — right now? What would change in my life if I truly believed that?

🛠️ Daily Practical Application

Today, let us live with integrity. Speak truthfully, bless freely, and show up for others. Like Paul, let’s build people up with love, not tear them down with gossip or grudges. A simple phone call, a word of encouragement, a prayer for someone in difficulty — these are ways we can "watch over the flock" entrusted to us.

🌧️ For Those Who Encounter Difficulties

To those who feel tired, unappreciated, or misunderstood — know this: Jesus is interceding for you. He sees you, believes in you, and calls you by name. Like Paul, your tears are not wasted. God gathers them as seeds of new life.

🌍 What Can I Do During the Jubilee Year?

Use this Jubilee Year to reconnect — with family, your parish, your community, your spiritual gifts. Consider mentoring someone younger in the faith or volunteering in a local charity. It's a year to forgive, rebuild, and go deeper.

💡 Inspiration: Pilgrims of Hope in South Africa

We are not tourists in faith — we are pilgrims of hope. We travel light, walk together, and believe that even here in Mzansi, God's dream for peace, justice, and reconciliation is possible.

🧭 Inspiration Quote

"You may not be famous, but someone is watching you pray, forgive, and love. That makes you their saint-in-progress."

🙏 Conclusion & Short Prayer

May Jesus, who prays for us, continue to make us one in heart and mission. May we, like Paul, finish well — with courage and compassion.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for praying for me. Help me today to love as You loved, to lead with humility, and to serve with joy. May I never forget that I am part of something greater — a pilgrim of hope, walking with You.
Amen.