Easter - Giving Reasons for the Hope of Others

Sixth Sunday of Easter: May 10, 2026

Readings: Acts 8:5–8, 14–17; Psalm 66:1–7, 16, 20; 1 Peter 3:15–18; John 14:15–21

St Peter Preaching to the crowds

Christianity, as a religion, is built on certain values and principles: Love, compassion, peace, joy, mercy, kindness, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control and many more. These are also the fruits of the Holy Spirit (St. Paul in Galatians 5:22–23). The boldness and courage the disciples of Jesus experienced after the resurrection are remarkable. Instead of hate and revenge, love and reason become the strength of the disciples of Jesus. They preach good in place of evil, suffering in place of revenge, righteousness in place of unrighteousness. St Peter, as the head of the early Church, advises Christians to give reasons for the hope of others. Make others understand the faith in Jesus through intelligent conversations. In other words, gentleness and compassion become the instruments to preach the good news of Jesus Christ. The liturgical readings on this Sunday precisely do that. Only love is credible, and courage is possible when you carry with you the Risen Lord. 

1. Love is shown more in deeds than words

In the Gospel of  John 14:15–21, Jesus speaks tenderly to His disciples before His suffering and death. He knows that fear, confusion, and loneliness are beginning to fill their hearts. Yet His words are not words of abandonment; they are words of promise, companionship, and love. Jesus assures them that although He may leave physically, He will never leave them orphaned. The Father will send the Advocate, the Spirit of Truth, who will remain with them forever.

Love for Jesus is not merely an emotional attachment or devotion expressed through words. Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” True love becomes visible in the way we live, in our fidelity to God, in compassion toward others, in forgiveness, honesty, humility, and service. Christian discipleship is not only about believing in Christ but about allowing His life and values to shape our daily actions.

2. When we trust in the Lord, he gives us strength

The promise of the Holy Spirit is deeply consoling. The fear-filled, utterly helpless disciples of Jesus come back to life with great courage and boldness. Often, we experience moments of weakness, meaninglessness, loneliness, uncertainty, discouragement, or spiritual dryness or even thoughts about death. At times, we feel alone in carrying responsibilities, struggles, or personal crosses. Jesus reminds us that the Spirit continues to guide, strengthen, and comfort us. The Spirit quietly works within us—helping us discern what is right, giving courage during trials, and leading us toward truth and peace.

Jesus also says, “I will not leave you orphaned.” These words reveal the heart of God. God will never abandon us, but we might abandon Him! He will be with us but we might not be with Him!! Human relationships may fail, people may disappoint us, and life may bring loneliness, but God never abandons His children. Christ remains present in our lives—in prayer, in the Eucharist, in the Word of God, in the healthy and uplifting conversations, and in the people around us. Even when we cannot clearly feel His presence, He continues to walk with us.

3. Growing in compassion to communion and commitment

As we prepare ourselves for the feast of the Ascension of the Lord, the Gospel further invites us into a living and loving relationship with the Trinity. God is best expressed in Trinity. Jesus speaks of the mutual indwelling: “I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you.” Faith is therefore not simply following rules, studying dogmas, or reading catechism; it is communion with God. The Christian life becomes a journey of allowing God to dwell within us and transform us from within.

This passage also challenges us to ask whether our lives truly reflect the Spirit of Truth. In a world often shaped by selfishness, dishonesty, hatred, and superficiality in rites and rituals, Christians are called to become witnesses of truth, integrity, compassion, and hope. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live differently and to become signs of Christ’s presence in the world.

Questions for Self-Reflection

1. Do I express my love for Jesus through the way I live and treat others?
2. Am I attentive to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in my daily decisions?
3. How can I become a greater sign of hope and love to those around me?

Concluding Prayer

Lord Jesus, You never abandon us or leave us alone. Thank You for the gift of Your Spirit who guides, strengthens, and comforts us in every moment of life. Help us to love You not only in words but through faithful and compassionate living. Open our hearts to the Spirit of Truth so that we may walk in Your ways and become instruments of peace, hope, and love in the world. Remain with us always and deepen our communion with You each day. We make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name, Amen.

- Fr Olvin Veigas, SJ

E-mail: olvinveigas@jesuits.net

Blog: Celebrate Faith

Video: YouTube

08 May 2026