In this episode, we discuss the readings of the Fifth Sunday in Easter (5/2/21)
The common thread running through the readings is authentic discipleship. What are the signs of a true Christian disciple? How can we “check” ourselves? What questions should we ask ourselves as we examine our conscience?
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(1:58) Check-In about first 5 months of 2021
(14:34) Themes of todays readings
(17:30) 1st Reading
(50:41) Responsorial
(1:07:45) 2nd Reading
(1:40:40) Gospel
(2:06:50) Final Thoughts
Saul, also known as Paul, was an infamous persecutor of Christians who suddenly converted and became one of Christianity’s most important voices. How could his fellow Christians know his conversion was the real deal? Paul is vouched for by his friend as well as by his own actions and preaching.
The responsorial psalm highlights the importance of our praise of God for the evangelization of people in present times and future generations. The selection from John’s letter builds upon the statement of last week’s second reading, that we are children of God.
With this in mind, John reminds the Church that key characters of a child of God include keeping the commandments of Jesus and, above all, love. Lastly, the Gospel is about Jesus’ I Am statement: I Am the true vine. It is of essential importance that a Christian stay connected to Jesus and “remain in [Him]” by keeping His commands. This is the only connection that can truly bear the fruit of salvation. However, in our freedom, we can overly attach ourselves to vines that are not necessarily good for us. So it behooves us to, daily, “unplug” and attach ourselves to the true vine of Christ, through silence, prayer, reading God’s Word, and being an active part of the Church community.
( https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/050221.cfm )
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