Sixth Week of Easter : Sunday, 5th May 2024

The turning point in the Church’s mission to the pagans came when Peter, as head of the Apostles, acknowledged that God was also calling them into the Church and that they could receive salvation in the name of Jesus. It was God Himself who exempted the Gentiles from having to be circumcised before joining the Church. God showed His approval by sending the Spirit upon Cornelius and his household, Peter could not refute this reality.

The falling of the Spirit upon Cornelius and his household also fulfilled Jesus’ prophecy: “You will be baptised with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 1: 5). The Spirit was now poured out on all who were devout and God fearing. Since the Spirit purified the Gentiles, who were considered “unclean” by the Jews, the requirement for external circumcision became unnecessary.

What makes God desire that all humanity be saved in the name of Jesus? John’s first epistle tells us that it is because of love. It is God Who takes the initiative to reach out to sinful humanity. Human beings are called to respond to God by loving Him and others. In order to do this, Christians are asked by Jesus to remain in Him through a relationship of love. This love is a true sacrificial gift of Christ Himself. It creates a bond which holds together the relationship between God and humanity. Only by remaining in Christ can a disciple truly produce fruit.

Lord, may our endurance to love produce lasting fruits.