I love to read about the early workings of the Church in the Acts of the Apostles! In our first reading today, the Church is addressing whether and how the Law of Moses should apply to Gentile converts, as well as the increasing diversity of the early Christian community.

The decision of the Church is two-fold. First, by not placing the heavy burden of the Law of Moses on the Gentiles, the Church acknowledges the limitlessness of how God works in the world. The Holy Spirit did indeed abide in these Gentile believers, despite the fact that they did not follow all of the laws and customs of the Jewish people. Yet, the decision also asked that the Gentiles respect some of the deeply embedded sensitivities of the Jewish people, therefore calling for a spirit of consideration and respect toward one another. “Conversion, therefore, is not simply a theological debate; it is a reconciliation with a family where Jesus is the head.” (Biblical Meditations for the Easter Season, Carroll Stuhlmueller, C.P.)

This perfect union of love within a family is demonstrated in today’s Gospel. “As the Father loves me, so I also love you.” By keeping Jesus’ commandments to love others selflessly, we remain in this loving family union with God in Christ. And keeping his commandments is not burdensome, but rather is the path to experiencing fullness of joy. As they say in The Mandalorian (geeky Star Wars reference), “This is the way!”

What concrete steps can I take today to embrace and celebrate the diversity of my fellow family members in the Body of Christ?

Let Us Pray:

Lord Jesus Christ, who gave yourself for the good of all, we come before you as brothers and sisters, but we are divided, and at times, even hostile – tearing one another down. We approach the altar unworthily and ask for your forgiveness. Move us, instead, towards encounter, listening, dialogue, reconciliation, and a commitment to build your kingdom for the good of all. Heal us, restore us, unite your divided family, Lord. Through the power of the Eucharist, overcome our divisions. Give us sincere hearts that make us open, not closed, and willing to encounter, ready to listen. In your broken body, given for all, may we find unity and peace in you. Amen. (Prayer for Unity, USCCB)