It’s Jesus’ mission to bring eternal life to all who believe

Father Perry D. Leiker, pastor.

A reflection on the daily readings, by Father Perry, for Wednesday of the Third Week of Easter.

By Father Perry D. Leiker, pastor

+ Two things were happening at the same time that seemed a little contradictory. On the one hand, a severe persecution broke out, and it was scattering Christians throughout the countryside.

At the very same time, the preaching of the apostles grew stronger. Many signs were occurring, including unclean spirits crying out in loud voices as possessed people were being set free. Paralyzed and crippled people were cured, and great joy was happening throughout the city.

Persecution almost seemed to cause more faith and more joy! The psalm echoes the spirit of the first reading from Acts in the joy-filled refrain —

“Let all the earth cry out to God with joy.”

And Jesus proclaims boldly and lovingly —

“I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me will never hunger, and whoever believes in me will never thirst.”

Jesus promises never to reject anyone, nor should he lose anything or anyone given to him by the Father. Jesus is on a mission to bring eternal life to all who believe, and to raise them on the last day.

The Easter message continues to burst forth, and burst out with great joy and life!

No wonder we sing aloud —

Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!