BEARING THE IMAGE OF CHRIST

Reflection for Wednesday of the 4^th Week of Easter

(Acts 12:24—13:5; Jn 12:44-50)

Jesus is the image of the unseen God (Col 1:15). His very person is the presence of God among us (Jn 14:9).  And His works is a proof of the Father’s love and power among us. To believe in Jesus is to believe in the Father and the Holy Spirit. He is the light that shines the glory of the Father upon us. Being like us in all things but sin, he has shown us the way to the Father; He has given us a living example we can adapt in every situation of our lives. It is through faith in Jesus that we enter into the relationship with Him that launches us into communion with the Holy Trinity. “He who believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me.”

By acting on our faith, we too are to reflect the image of Jesus Christ, just as Jesus reflected the image of the Father. Over the years, the things that influence and motivate us are hidden from others, but from the sequence of actions they produce, they reflect certain images, which we ourselves may not be aware of.  The things we do and say do not come from vacuum. Let the love of Jesus be the energy within, and then our intentions will be to the glory of God. So we take example from the early Church. What did they do, in the first reading of today, to be ambassadors of Christ Jesus?

Their mission began to grow and multiply. They had to employ more hands to help out in the ministry. The different gifts and personalities were recognized. But still they maintained a common centre of authority in Jerusalem, living in obedience, and communal prayer. “Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off.” The spreading of the gospel became for them an answer to their prayers. Prayer is the key! That was how the disciples communed with Jesus, and the Holy Spirit directed them to do the will of the Father. If we do not pray, we cannot imitate Jesus.

What is that stuff you are known for? What is the legacy you want to leave behind for your family and society? Like the disciples, if we keep obedience to the word of God, and be consistent in prayer, we will have the light of Christ, and radiate that light to others. “I have come as light into the world, that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.”

Fr Jude Nwachukwu, C.Ss.R

Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church,

Tedi-Muwo, Lagos.

Wednesday May 6th