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May 13, 2012, Sixth Sunday of Easter

"Live on in my love." (John 15)

READINGS:

1. Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48
2. 1 John 4:7-10
3. Gospel John 15:9-17        (Click Here for Readings)

REFLECTION: Each year as we approach the end of the Easter season, a certain mood is found in the Gospel readings. This mood has two faces, one looks toward the past and the other toward the future. Take, for example, Sunday’s Gospel. With love and satisfaction, Jesus recalls his past relationship with his disciples. He also looks forward to what he desires most for them.

PRAYER: Lord, we thank you for the wonderful gift of memory. Through it you help us to live our daily lives and to recall your blessings. You have always outdone yourself in generosity to us. May the blessings that you have shown us in the past, increase our trust in your care for us. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

FAMILY DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY:

Monday: This week with the celebration of Ascension Day, we will spend time remembering. Put a picture of a loved one(s) and the Bible in a prominent place this week. Perhaps you might want to place a candle with them.

Tuesday: A spiritual type of remembering includes recalling good times, hard times, people who have been important to us and the Lord’s blessings through the years. Take time today to do some spiritual remembering.

Wednesday: With the family, bring out the albums and remember good times. Let them help you pray in thanks to God.

Thursday: Today is Ascension Thursday. Attend Mass today and recommit yourself to your baptismal vows to proclaim the “good news.”

Friday: Sometimes we have painful memories. Remember that these experiences can make us more dependent on God. Pray the Sorrowful Mysteries (click here for video) of the rosary today.

Saturday: Celebrate this day with the family by visiting someone who is sick or simply in need of a visit.

PRAYER: Lord, we remember your life, death, and resurrection and thank you for sharing its power with us and with all creation. May it bring us all into your kingdom of everlasting life. We pray in your Holy Name. Amen.