THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Friday of the Third Week of Easter, 2023

Acts 9:1-20

Ps 117

John 6:52-59

Why are you persecuting me?

Our Gospel passage of today (John 6:52-59) is a continuation of the discourse on the bread of life. This selection, however, reveals the extent to which the disciple can grow in Christ. No wonder in Antioch, they were called ‘Christians’ a name which has remained to the present day. Jesus told his listeners, “For my flesh is food indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. He who eats my flesh and drinks my blood abides in me, and I in him. As the living Father sent me, and I live because of the Father, so he who eats me will live because of me.” This is the reason why Paul in Colossians 1:18 says, “Christ is the head of the body, the Church…” All those who believe in him form one body. He lives in them and they live in him. This is the mystery of the Christian faith. The followers of Jesus are ‘other Christ’ and they are expected to live the way Jesus will live in every situation. Jesus is the cornerstone of the building which is made up of living stones and the followers make up these stones. Whatever happens to any member of his body then happens to Christ himself.

Our first reading today (Acts 9:1-20) reveals that more clearly. After the killing of Stephen, Saul obtained a letter to the synagogues at Damascus in other to go there and bring back to Jerusalem anyone found to be a follower of the Way. He was however to become a follower of the Way, before getting to Damascus. While he was on his journey, “Suddenly, a light from heaven flashed about him. And he fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’” When he tried to enquire who it was, he got an unexpected answer, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting; but rise and enter the city, and you will be told what you are to do.” From then on he will become a chosen instrument in the hands of the Lord to bring the good news, particularly to the Gentiles. Whatsoever you do to the least of those around you, you do to Jesus. Do not be too preoccupied with Church worship and then forget those around you beginning from your own home. Wherever there is human suffering, Jesus is present, just as he is present in the midst of those who worship. Do not be in the camp of those who persecute him.

Let us pray: Lord be merciful for the times we have failed to see you in those around us. Help us to be mindful of you in others. Amen. 

+Remain blessed