Thursday Fifth Week of Easter

Matthew 18:15: If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY:

Heavenly Father, Lord God Almighty, forgive our foolish and selfish ways. Give us bravery to lovingly meet those who have sinned against us, but if we cannot bring reconciliation, help us through the power of your Holy Spirit to pardon as you have forgiven us. In Infant Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Today's Readings (May 10, 2012)

Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter

First Reading: Acts 15:7-21

Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 10

Gospel: John 15:9-11

Colour: WHITE

Lectionary: 288

Short reflection on Today's Gospel (John 15:9-11)

Do we know the love that produces endless joy? Jesus speaks of the love which the Father and he have for those who belong to him. No one can by no means out give God in love, because he has loved us without measure. Our love for him is a reply to his exceeding mercy and kindness towards us. St. Paul tells us that we can abound in joy and hope because God has pour out his love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom he has given us. In God's love we find the fullness of grace, life, peace, and joy. Jesus gives his disciple a new commandment a new way of love. We are to love others as Jesus has loved us. What is the essence of this new commandment? True love is always sacrificial. It gives all to the dearly loved. And there is no better proof in love than the give up of one's life for the sake of another. Jesus showed his love for his disciples by bountiful his life for them, even to death on the cross. We should show our love for God and for one another when we hug the way of the cross. What is the cross in my life? Do we know the joy and happiness of a life fully given up to God and consumed with his love?