6th Sunday of Easter
Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48; Psalm 98:1-4; 1 John 4:7-10;
John 15:9-17
Remain in my love. (John 15:9)
We engage in a spiritual battle every day. On the one side, there is “the world”—everything around us that is opposed to Jesus. There is “the flesh”—everything within us that is opposed to Jesus. And there is “Satan”—who is completely opposed to Jesus. These three will do anything to keep us from enjoying God’s love and sharing it with other people. On the other side, we have the Holy Spirit, the sacraments, the word of God, and one another.
The case can be made that the world is moving further away from God. Media bombards us from every angle. Materialism continues to grow unchecked. The world tells us that we can pick and choose which commandments to follow. Everything has become subjective and relative. Deception, greed, sexual immorality, selfishness, pride, and the like are commonplace.
In the midst of all these tempting and competing philosophies, Jesus is telling us, “Seek me first.” Who will we listen to?
This is why we have to make sure we are focusing on Jesus during our prayer and not doing these things simply out of routine. It’s why we have to be sure to spend time with members of our parish, praying together, sharing a meal together, or serving together. These practices will help us keep our minds focused on the high calling God has for us rather than on the ways of the world or our fallen nature or the devil.
So let’s enjoy the media, but be sure to let in only what is good and wholesome. Let’s try to keep material things in the right perspective. Let’s try to find a balance between looking out for our comfort and taking care of the people around us. If we can do that, we’re sure to bear fruit.
Don’t be afraid to take up the spiritual battle today. It’s the least you can do in return for all that Jesus has done for you!
“Jesus, thank you for your friendship. Help me to remain in your love.”~WAU
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