5th Sunday Easter C
Acts 14:21-27
This summarizes Paul’s and Barnabas’s first missionary journey (46-49 A.D.) through cities in Asia Minor, including Galatia, Pisidia, and Pamphylia. Upon returning to Lystra, Iconium, and Pisidian Antioch—where they had previously faced expulsion—they encouraged new disciples, reflecting on suffering in Jesus’ life and that of his followers (Lk 24:26; Lk 9:23). The mention of presbyters (v23), although not found in Pauline writings, indicates their importance in later church governance (1 Tim 5:17-23; Tit 1:5). After visiting two coastal cities in Pamphylia, they sailed back to Antioch in Syria, where they announced the Gentile mission, highlighting God’s guidance in the church’s outreach toward the “ends of the earth” (v27; 1:8).
Ps 145
This alphabetic hymn praises Yahweh’s covenant “virtues” of fidelity and forbearance in a direct echo of Exodus (Ex 34:6).
Rev 21:1-5
A new beginning unfolds as the former heaven and earth are replaced by a new universe (v1), signaling the definitive reign of God. The sea, often seen as a symbol of evil, is eliminated, marking the end of the old order. The church, depicted as the “new Jerusalem” and a bride (v2), symbolizes the final union between Christ and the elect, a relationship initiated by Christ’s death and resurrection. A celestial voice announces this union (v3f), referencing God’s dwelling among people and promising the removal of tears and sorrow. This ushers in an era of peace and the ultimate salvation for God’s people, with God as the Creator of this new order.
Jn 13:31-33, 34-35
The passage introduces Jesus’ final discourse during the Last Supper, highlighting two main themes: his leave-taking and the new commandment.
Jesus’ Leave-Taking:
Jesus announces his imminent glorification through his death and resurrection, emphasized by Judas’ departure to betray him (v30). His glorification (cf 17:1f) signifies the Father’s recognition of Jesus’ self-giving, which liberates him from death and grants eternal life to believers. The reference to glorification “at once” (v32) likely pertains to his departure to the Father, marking a period when the apostles will continue without Jesus’ physical presence.
The New Commandment:
Jesus gives a mandate of love, reiterating the importance of loving one another as a hallmark of the new covenant. While love of neighbor is not new (see Lev 19:18), here it specifically applies to fellow Christians and is framed within the context of the love Jesus demonstrated through his sacrificial death. This mutual love among believers becomes the true testament to their faith, surpassing words or martyrdom in demonstrating their commitment to Christ.
‘The theme of today’s readings is newness: in the first, we see new disciples, from the Gentiles; in the second, we encounter a new creation; and in the Gospel, there is a new commandment. Although the commandment itself is not entirely new, its significance lies in being the central principle of a new covenant that establishes a heart-centered relationship between God and His people, (cf Jer 31:31-34). This commandment is new in the sense that it expresses the Spirit, making its observance possible. It is also new in that it is based on the love that Christ demonstrated for His disciples by willingly giving His life for them—an act of love greater than any other (John 15:13). This kind of love will become evident to others and should serve as the true hallmark of Christianity (John 15:35). Followers of Christ will not be recognized by their words, teachings, or even martyrdom, but rather by the depth of their mutual love.
Do we truly mirror Christ’s love in our own lives? Is our love as radical as His, willing to offer our lives for others without exception? May it be so. Amen.’ (cf s1S#85 New, 5/15/22).
