To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.
Gospel Reflection – Thursday, May 15, 2025
Dear friends,
As we read and reflect on the missionary work of St. Paul, presented today in the Acts of the Apostles, we’re reminded that nothing is impossible for God. This beautiful account shows us that as long as there is life, there is hope—hope for a change in perspective, for a total rebirth, for a life turned completely around. Paul went from being a persecutor of Christ to being persecuted for Christ, even giving his life for Him. And today, we see him preaching fearlessly in Antioch.
We often experience the sorrow of seeing that people we love don’t share the gift of faith. Parents lament that their children don’t believe, despite all their efforts. Spouses wish their partners shared this part of life, to deepen their love. Families struggle to celebrate together because not everyone values this treasure of faith. But people can change, just like Paul did. It’s never too late for hope.
No one ever said that faith in Jesus Christ is easy. Faith is a battle fought on two fronts: one internal, against our own selfish, destructive, or dark tendencies; and the other external, against circumstances, situations, and even people who sometimes make it hard to follow Jesus. To grow and move forward in faith, we must fight. Paul fought this battle within himself—but once he saw clearly and understood, he remained faithful to the end.
Today’s Gospel shows us a short but powerful message from Jesus, spoken just after He washed the disciples’ feet. Once again, He speaks of service—that this is the way to welcome Him. This call to humble service was also lived deeply by the saint we remember today: St. Isidore the Farmer, a man from Madrid. He was a humble laborer with deep faith and daily prayer, who generously shared what little he had with the poor. These are the witnesses that remind us the Lord’s promises are true.
Today, in our prayer, we ask the Lord never to let us lack the nourishment of His Body and Blood in the Eucharist, to strengthen us in our inner battles. And we pray for all those we love who do not yet know the Lord, that one day they may come to encounter the Living Bread who came down from heaven.
Your brother in faith,