Paul and Barnabas went to the Apostles and elders in Jerusalem to discuss things that occured in the midst of the Church. Reading and meditation of the Word of God on Wednesday of the 5th week of Easter, May 5, 2021. Reading ia delivered by Rumenta Gita Fransisca and meditation delivered by Hermanus Malo Dona, from Saint Peter’s School in Jakarta, Indonesia. Acts of the Apostles 15: 1-6; Rs psalm 122: 1-2.3-4a.4b-5; John 15: 1-8
REMAIN IN ME
The theme for our meditation today is: Remain in Me. We are still enriched by the words of God, especially the teachings of Jesus Christ about the true vine. Jesus Christ as the true vine and His Father is the steward or owner. So His invitation that we remain in Him is a very basic teaching. By living in Him, we have it all both the life in this world and the life in the hereafter. To live and being outside of Him is the same as death itself.
Between husband and wife also between themselves and their children, the principle of living together with one another is fundamental and non-negotiable choice. Likewise, the relationship with each other between us related to work relationships or spiritual relationships, it should be an absolute choice. The basic reason is that we need each other. Everyone cannot suffice himself or herself to say that he or she lives only for himself or herself.
Parents, educators, or leaders do not have in their hearts to say to the children or people they serve: “It’s up to you, be free and do whatever you want, or don’t bother with relationships, but just live as you wish”. If so happens, it means our life is not healthy. Likewise, God never teaches us as a branch or branches from Himself as the true vine: “Do what you want or bear fruit as you like”. It should mean that He is an arbitrary God. Instead, He commands and invites us: “Remain in Me”!
The main principles we must follow certainly to listen to Him, to keep His commandments, and to build His kingdom. These principles are united in one teaching only, namely love. However, to build a true and peaceful Church in this life, there is no smooth, steady, and comfortable process and atmosphere. The fact that differences between persons, groups, ethnicities, cultures and life choices are often the basis for conflicts and disputes. Often love is at stake. When personal or group interests are to be prioritized, love can be denied.
If there is conflict and disagreement between us, God’s teaching should remain strong and demanding, which is: to “Remain in Me” that must be our point of reference. This principle must be a stance to achieve peace and harmony. Paul and Barnabas walked this path by bringing conflict within the Church in Antioch and its environments to Jerusalem in order to settle them out. The goal was to stay connected to the point which is Jesus Christ and obey His true teaching: Remain in Me. Unity and fellowship are useful in facing conflicts between individuals and groups. That is the true power from the true vine.
Let’s pray. In the name of the Father … Our most powerful God, bless us to be always one with You and not away from You. Our Father who art in heaven … In the name of the Father, and of the Son …