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Master·evangeli.net

Today's Gospel + short theological explanation

Saturday of the Fifth Week of Easter
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Gospel text (Jn 15:18-21): Jesus said to his disciples; “If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first (…). Remember the word I spoke to you, ‘No slave is greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you (…).”

Fidelity to Christ, the light of the world

Fr. Ferran JARABO i Carbonell (Agullana, Girona, Spain)

Today, the Gospel is in opposition to the world of Christ's followers. The world represents whatever sinfulness there may be in our existence. One of the main characteristics of Christ's followers is fighting all evil and sin to be found in the world and inside every man. Jesus is the light of men, the light that illuminates the world's darkness.

Neither Christians nor the Church can follow the passing fads. Christ's criterion is the unique, definitive and unavoidable one for us to follow. It is not up to Jesus to adapt Himself to the world where we live; it is up to us instead to transform our lives to imitate Jesus. When our secularized society demands from us and from the Church certain changes or licenses, we are simply being asked to move away from God. We, Christians, however, should be faithful to Christ and to His message.

—Resurrected Christ, give me courage to proclaim You —without any fear— as our light and joy. Holy Spirit, transform me so I am capable of informing the whole world about Him!