Breaking the Word

5^th week in Easter Time, Friday – 12^th May 2023 – Acts 15,22-31; Jn 15,12-17

Discernment in Action

In the first reading, the leaders of the early church produced the first pastoral message from the first ecumenical council. They proclaimed that Gentiles need not become Jews in order to become Christians. A convert to Christianity needs only to keep the basic commandments of avoiding idolatrous practices and remaining faithful to marriage vows.  Being a Christian is much different than being a slave to rituals and rules. The leaders were conscious that in setting policies, they need not show off that they were well known in faith and had authority to force others to do what they wanted. They were called rather to love one another, not burdening others with laws that they themselves could not keep. They were more open to discussions, prayers and seeking guidance of the Holy Spirit. They felt that they are being guided by the Holy Spirit to sort out issues not only of the present times, but for the future as well. Thus, they initiated the discernment process of looking at the different sides of the issue and praying for a consensus.

5^th week in Easter Time, Thursday – 11^th May 2023 – Acts 5,7-21; Jn 15,9-11

Salvation is a Free Gift

The first reading presents the discussion in depth about the issue of circumcision. The conclusions made by the council of Jerusalem can be divided into three parts: 1) The speech of Peter, head of the apostles; 2) The statement of James, the leader of the Jerusalem church; and 3) an ‘encyclical’ letter (first of many) sent to the churches.  James, the leader and relative of Jesus, in his statement says that no unnecessary burdens should be put on Gentiles who wish to be converted. He lists four things Gentile Christians should avoid. 1) Pollution from idols; 2) Unlawful marriage; 3) Meat of strangled animals; and 4) Blood. In favouring the faith of the Gentiles and in requesting to avoid certain regulations, James highlights that Jesus has brought salvation for all freely and gratuitously. Therefore, keeping the precepts does not help in attaining one’s salvation.