Looking Ahead: May 5-9, 2025

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead. In the gospels this week we see the importance of the Eucharist in John 6. We are reminded it is Jesus who feeds us. The first readings from the Acts of the Apostles show the effects of persecution but also the great work of the Holy Spirit.

Monday, May 5, 2025

We meet Stephen today, the one ordained a deacon to wait at tables. But he is also a mighty fine preacher, and he speaks boldly in the name of Jesus. The Sanhedrin is taken with his appearance, but cannot accept the faith and works he talks about.

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

Stephen’s bold words cause him to be martyred. We see the worst and the best of Saint Paul this week. Today he is at his worst. He concurs in the stoning of Stephen. In the gospel, Jesus strives to help his followers understand the eucharist.

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

As the Sanhedrin discovers, the Holy Spirit simply does not cease raising up preachers. Even though Stephen is killed, Philip takes his place and speaks about Jesus. Saul is still at his worst, trying to destroy the Church. In the gospel we read the well-known phrase of Jesus that he is the Bread of Life.

Thursday, May 8, 2025

Philip continues preaching the word. He is sent to an Ethiopian who learns through the words of Philip the meaning of what he is reading in the prophet Isaiah. In the gospel an important point is emphasized by Jesus. It is God who always takes the initiative. God must draw us, and we can only respond because of God’s grace.

Friday, May 9, 2025

Saul, still “breathing murderous threats”, is drawn by Jesus to conversion. Saul reminds us how easy it is that we can be led to do really awful things if we do not pay careful attention to the presence of God within us. Saul persecutes the Christians, because he is convinced his faith requires him to do so. An encounter with Jesus changes all of that.

Saturday, May 10, 2025

The Church is at peace, and the Holy Spirit continues to work. Peter is a powerful instrument of Jesus’ healing, curing a paralyzed man and healing a woman who appeared to be dead. The more the attempt to try to destroy the Church, the more the Church flourishes and grows. Jesus asks his disciples if his challenging words will cause them to leave too.

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