In Acts of the Apostles Chapter 15, Peter spoke to his fellow apostles in defense of us, Gentiles, to let it be known that we, too, have been called by God. By our baptism, we are also given the Holy Spirit, the spirit of adoption as children of the Most High. We are sinners, not worthy of the gift we are given, but are the recipients of the unfathomable mercy of the One who is mercy. Grace is given to us for a reason, so that “there is no distinction between us and them, for by faith he purified their hearts.”

I try to be aware that I do not deserve the many gifts I have received throughout my life and that, like Mary Magdalene, I must love and forgive much because I have been loved and forgiven much. How do we repay all that which has been done for us?

If we have been in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament and felt that soothing calm from the presence of Christ Eucharistic, it is so that we embrace that peace and take him with us out to the world that he may be known everywhere. May our brethren get a chance to experience Christ through us!

Christ tells us: “Remain in my love.” Therefore, let us “not place on the shoulders of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear.” We have been given much, so there is much good to share, richly and without cost. Let us be aware and live mercifully towards our brethren, that as we have received, we can also give, living the way of love and mercy.

From the Eucharist, in thanksgiving, we go forth. What a gift it is to be God’s people!

Let us pray:

Lord, you are the God of love, the God of mercy. Allow us to witness your love for us in the world so that you may be recognized, loved, and adored wherever we go. Amen.