Date: May 9, 2020 ()

Bible Text: First Reading: Acts 13:44-52; Gospel: John 14:7-14 |

Series:

“There is always somebody who wraps me with a warm embrace and assurance - a mother’s hug that perfectly brings me warmth that came from heaven.”

It happened that, “when the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and with violent abuse contradicted what Paul said.” (Acts 13:44). These are some of the major setbacks the apostles met in propagating the Gospel. There are those who do not understand what is in the heart of God; therefore, Paul and the rest of the apostles, after a deep knowledge and understanding of what God truly desires, had to boldly make it known to them: “For so the Lord has commanded us, I have made you a light to the Gentiles, that you may be an instrument of salvation to the ends of the earth.”

Since the early times, God has been working marvelous deeds for His people and we know that what God did was not only for the Israelites; but, it was also meant for everybody, for all nations to see what God can do in times of distress.

Absolutely, God blessed his people Israel, so that they will, in turn, become blessings to other nations. Through Israel, all the ends of the earth may see the saving power of God.

And so, Paul, despite violent oppositions, without any hint of exhaustion and discouragement went from place to place to proclaim the good news of Salvation. This is the right response to the revelations of God - to believe and proclaim his goodness.

The fruit of the apostles’ labor is joy and gratitude. “The Gentiles were delighted when they heard this and glorified the word of the Lord.” Out of desperation amid these difficult times, certainly, some people will ask questions and express their doubts. Where is God? Where is His consolation?

I would like to especially remember my Mom today on this occasion of the Mother’s Day celebration. She is the only woman who misses me every day; who remembers me with love and fondness. Nobody is ever excited of my coming home but my mom. I knew she had been counting the days down to see me at our house’s doorstep. One time, I called her and I explained why I can’t be home on her birthday, but she just did not want to accept my excuses. She can’t wait to see me one of these days.

Now again the question where is God? I guess He is seen in those people who care and love us so much. God blessed my mom with a big loving heart so that no matter what I have become or who I am, there is always somebody who wraps me with a warm embrace and assurance - a mother’s hug that perfectly brings me the warmth that came from heaven.