God’s Unmatched Love

Author: Fr. Ignatius Britto, SJ
The Measure of True Discipleship
Reflection Date: April 30, 2025 Wednesday of the Second Week of Easter
Daily Readings: Acts 5:17-26; John 3: 16-21

The first reading of today captures a pivotal moment in the growth of the early Christian community, marked by divine intervention, human opposition, and the unwavering obedience of the Apostles to God.

The angel’s command — “to speak in the temple the whole message about this life” (Acts 5:20) — highlights that their mission is not merely human but divinely ordained. This obedience comes at the cost of imprisonment, public shame, and flogging, yet they rejoice in being considered worthy to suffer for Christ’s sake.

When we reflect on contemporary discipleship in today’s context, believers face immense pressure to conform to political agendas or societal norms. The stories of Fr. Stan Swamy, a Jesuit priest who worked with the tribals of North India, fought for their rights, and died in prison, and Cheng Jie, a Chinese Christian imprisoned and persecuted for standing for justice, mirror the apostles’ life and their experience with the Risen Christ. Do you stay faithful to God’s mission, even in the face of opposition?

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only Son…” (John 3:16). This verse stands at the heart of the Gospel. It speaks of God’s unconditional love, which leads to the greatest gift — Jesus. The passage also makes it clear that eternal life springs not from moral achievements but from embracing this love through faith.

The metaphor of light and darkness reveals one’s spiritual alignment. While Christ, the Light, invites transparency and transformation, darkness signifies condemnation and rejection of love. Let us then allow ourselves to be shaped by truth and honesty, marked by a willingness to live a life of love in God’s renewed presence.

Call to Action for Catholic Living:

• Trust the love that rescues.
• Walk in the light that dispels darkness.
• Be firm in your conviction that liberates.