Reflection for Thursday
of the 4th 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 7th, 2020.