Gospel: May 23, 2025
May 23, 2025 (Friday)
5th Week of Easter
Psalter: Week 1 / (White)
Ps 57:8-9, 10 & 12
I will give you thanks among the peoples, O Lord
1st Reading: Acts 15:22-31
Gospel: John 15:12-17
This is my commandment: Love one another as I have loved you! There is no greater love than this, to give one’s life for one’s friends; and you are my friends, if you do what I command you. I shall not call you servants any more, because servants do not know what their master is about. Instead, I have called you friends, since I have made known to you everything I learned from my Father. You did not choose me; it was I who chose you and sent you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last. And everything you ask the Father in my name, he will give you. This is my command, that you love one another.
Reflection:
“It was I who chose you.”
“You did not choose me; it was I who chose you.” It was the custom at the time of Jesus that potential disciples would listen to various rabbis and then decide upon whom they wanted to follow. And so, the disciples chose their rabbi. However, with Jesus it’s the other way round. “You did not choose me; it was I who chose you.” Christ, the incarnate Son of the Father, has a plan for each of us. He knows us intimately, and so he chooses us and calls us to follow him in the context of our daily lives.
Our choice is to accept or reject his invitation, but, regardless of our response, Christ is the instigator of the relationship; not us. Jesus also calls us “friends,” and not just disciples or God’s servants. Deep, lasting friendship is built upon closeness, sharing of experience and knowledge, and love. We are to cultivate our friendship with Christ so we can know and love him
better. In this way, we feel his call and his presence, and that will make our lives more fruitful. Jesus has chosen you and called you his friend. How marvelous! How beautiful!
