A HUMBLE TWIST

Reflection for Thursday of the 4^th Week of Easter

(Acts 13:13-25; Jn 13:16-20)

Could this be a sign of growth in the mission of the early Church? A new trend evolved today!  At Pisidia, the synagogue of officials invited Paul and his companions to address the people. This is a surprise twist since before now they were being sent out of the synagogues and persecuted. Paul zealously grasped the opportunity; he would never miss a chance to proclaim Jesus Christ. He narrated to them the history of salvation beginning from the Patriarchs down to John the Baptist. He showed how the events of their history pointed to Jesus Christ and gave way for Him. So Jesus became the highest point and the one in whom the journey of the Israelites drew its meaning.

Interestingly, the Gospel of today located Jesus at the scene of the washing of feet of the apostles. The One who was highly exalted by the Old Testament brought Himself low that He might exalt His followers. The Master took the position of a servant! He told the apostles not to seek for recognition or to be exalted. In carrying out their mission in humility, they may not be accepted. “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who receives anyone whom I sent receives me; and he who receives me receives him who sent me.” Even when they achieve success, to God be the glory.

Fear of being rejected has led some people astray. A lot of people suffer crisis of relevance in their career and family. Sometimes a father or mother may begin to feel he or she is no more relevant, either because of loss of income, health failure, etc. You do not need to buy acceptance, thereby raising yourself up above where God has placed you. Jesus steps in with a new twist: humility. Though He was above all ages, still He had a humble beginning. Who would have believed that the disciple would be begged to come and preach in the synagogue! If we maintain a humble attitude towards others, and let our life journey move towards Jesus Christ as its destination, then He will bring that surprising twist that will uplift us and favour us. Amen!

Fr Jude Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,

Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.

Thursday May 7^th, 2020.