Life in Abundance

Author: Fr Ignatius Britto, SJ
Power of Testimony
Reflection Date: May 12, 2025 Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter 
Daily Reading: Acts 11:1-18; John 10: 1-10

This passage from the Acts of the Apostles highlights how God shatters human divisions, particularly between Jews and Gentiles. He extends salvation beyond ethnic and religious boundaries. Peter’s vision and the coming of the Holy Spirit to the Gentiles show that God does not show favoritism.

Are there groups we consciously or unconsciously exclude from God's grace due to social, cultural, or racial biases? The text reminds us that “what God has made clean, you must not call impure” (Acts 11:9).

Despite Peter’s personal sharing of his divine experience, some Jews were angry with him for violating the laws of Moses. Yet Peter’s humility in explaining his actions—without asserting his authority—demonstrates wisdom. As a result, his critics were silenced and God was glorified. He kept his focus on God's power, saying, “Who was I to stand in God’s way?” (Acts 11:17).

This offers a striking lesson for us today. When facing opposition, are we able to stand firm in God’s power rather than defend our own priorities and positions?

The Gospel reading today is part of Jesus’ teaching on His role as the Good Shepherd and the Gate for the sheep. Jesus emphasizes that the sheep recognize the voice of the true shepherd and follow Him. This reflects the intimacy and trust in the relationship between Jesus and His followers. It calls us to tune our ears to His voice through Scripture, prayer, and silence.

Jesus also warns us about thieves who sneak in to harm the flock. Today, modern “thieves” can enter our lives—those who influence Catholic believers to leave the Church, those who draw us away from God and make us slaves to media,and those who lure us into worldly pleasures.

Let us then consciously choose to enter life through the Gate of Christ.

Call to Action:

• Respond positively to the promptings of the Holy Spirit at all times.
• Become aware of the "thieves" and false voices that influence your decisions or identity.