The lesson of today’s readings is simple: if God wants something to happen, we just have to do our part, big or small, and it will happen. A group of uneducated fisherman will teach the religious authorities of their time, preach the Gospel and expand the Church. Five loaves and two fish will feed thousands of people. Our efforts to be holy and share the Gospel will bear fruit.
If something doesn’t seem to be working out, today’s readings teach us to ask whether that’s because we’re working with God or working against him. Sometimes we have to let things play out a little in order to truly know. The Sanhedrin, at Gamaliel’s recommendation, freed the apostles with a light, albeit unjust, punishment and a warning. Within a few decades the Temple they were sitting in would be in ruins, they would be dispersed, but the Church would continue to grow.
Have you ever asked God what he wants you to do today? What he wants you to do with your life? If something seems off in the way you’re living your life, ask Our Lord to help you see the way forward.
Readings: Acts 5:34–42; Psalm 27:1, 4, 13–14; John 6:1–15. See also 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B and 2nd Week of Easter, Friday.
