Fifth Sunday of Easter: April 03, 2026
Readings: Acts 6:1–7; Psalm 33:1–2, 4–5, 18–19; 1 Peter 2:4–9; John 14:1–12
Innocence is part of our lives. There is always a little corner for this aspect of our lives where we become childlike. We may be mature, adult and commanding many things, yet there are things which are unfamiliar to us, and often we might appear very silly. Yet, this phenomenon of our lives might give us sometimes joy and peace, moreover, a sense that we are ultimately human and we need guides on our way. On the Fifth Sunday of Easter, we have those wonderful readings which remind us that we must always be ready to learn, unlearn and relearn in our lives. This will make us very happy and face the challenges of life courageously and confidently.
1. Shifting our Gears of Courage and Trust
In the Gospel of St John 14:1–12, Jesus speaks directly to the restless heart: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” These are not mere comforting words, but an invitation into a deeper trust. Jesus senses the anxiety of his disciples—the uncertainty of what lies ahead, the fear of losing his physical presence—and he responds not with explanations, but with relationship. He calls them, and us, to believe: “Believe in God, believe also in me.”
Faith here is not intellectual agreement but a surrender of the heart. It is to entrust oneself to a Person who promises, not a life free from struggle, but a place prepared—“in my Father’s house there are many dwelling places.” This assurance stretches beyond death; it speaks to the abiding presence of God even now. We are not homeless in this world of shifting certainties. We belong to God and God alone.
2. Following the Way of the Lord of Truth and Life
The curious disciple of our Lord, St Thomas’ honest question—“Lord, we do not know where you are going. How can we know the way?”—becomes the doorway for one of the most profound revelations: “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” Jesus does not give directions; he gives himself. He is the marga. The Christian journey is not primarily about following rules or maps, procedures and protocols, processes and positions. It is simply walking with Christ, entering into his way of being, his truth of love, his life of communion with the Father. Nothing more or nothing less.
Another formidable disciple of our Lord, Philip’s request—“Show us the Father”—echoes a deep human longing to see God. Who does not like to see the vision of God? Jesus’ response is both simple and challenging: “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father.” God is not distant or abstract; God is revealed in the life, person, compassion, forgiveness, and self-giving love of Jesus. To know Christ is to encounter the Father’s heart. Jesus tells Philip not to make things complicated, but simply follow his Master.
3. Believing in the Certainty that God Walks with us
If seeing is believing, then following is contemplation of God. The words of Jesus: “The one who believes in me will also do the works that I do, and, in fact, will do greater works than these.” Nothing is impossible for a person who trusts in God and follows in his precepts. Faith is not static, but instead dynamic. To believe in Christ is to participate in his work—to become instruments of healing, reconciliation, courage, compassion, mercy and hope in the world.
While the readings of today invite us to examine ourselves, we must ask, where do we feel troubled or uncertain? What fears weigh upon us? Jesus does not dismiss these feelings but gently redirects us toward trust. He calls us to anchor our lives not in shifting circumstances, but in his enduring presence. When we face uncertainties, indifference, confusion and despair, we must infuse in us love, truth, and enthusiasm. We must have that great faith which, in the midst of struggle, God is at work preparing something greater than we can see.
Questions for self-reflection
- What are the situations in my life right now that make my heart troubled or anxious, and how do I bring them to Christ in trust?
- How have I experienced Jesus as “the truth” and “the life” in my own journey of faith?
- In what ways am I called to continue the works of Jesus—bringing love, healing, forgiveness, and hope to others?
