Acts 8:5-8, 14-17, 1 Peter 3:15-18 & John 14:15-21
You Are Not Alone
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
The readings for this Sixth Sunday of Easter fill us with hope: God never abandons His people. Jesus promises to be with us always. The Holy Spirit brings strength and comfort. Even in times of suffering, believers can hold fast to the assurance that they are never left alone. In the Gospel, Jesus tells His disciples, “I will not leave you, orphans.” These words are deeply comforting. Jesus knew His disciples would face fear, confusion, and persecution after His death. Yet He promised them another Advocate, the Holy Spirit, who would remain with them forever.
This assurance is not limited to the disciples of long ago but extends to us today. Many people feel alone. Some carry hidden pain. Some worry about family, health, work, or the future. Some pray yet feel God is silent. In such moments, today’s Gospel speaks directly to the heart: “I will not leave you.” Christ remains with His people.
The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles today shows this promise becoming real. Philip goes to Samaria and preaches Christ. Many people listen; evil spirits leave; the sick are healed; and the city is filled with joy. Later, Peter and John pray over the new believers, who receive the Holy Spirit.
Notice something uplifting: where the Holy Spirit is welcomed, fear fades and joy blossoms. The Holy Spirit is not a gift for just a few but is poured out on every baptised Christian. The Spirit fills us with courage in weakness, wisdom in confusion, and hope in challenging times. Sometimes we search for peace in things like money, success, or approval, but true and lasting peace radiates from God’s presence within us.
Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commandments.” Love for Christ is not merely words; real love is shown in our actions. Christians who love Jesus must choose forgiveness over revenge, truth over lies, and mercy over hatred. This is not easy. Saint Peter knew this. In the second reading, he urges Christians to remain faithful even when they suffer for doing good, reminding them that Christ also suffered yet obeyed the Father.
Today, many suffer for doing what is right. Some are mocked for their faith; others are punished for their honesty, or persist in loving despite being hurt. Saint Peter’s message is clear: never be ashamed of goodness. God sees each sacrifice made in faith. In contrast to worldly thinking, the world often teaches people to rely only on themselves. But Christianity teaches something different. We are strongest when we remain connected to Christ. Without Him, the human heart grows restless. With Him, even suffering can produce peace. The saints understood this truth. They faced trials yet remained joyful, knowing they were never alone. The same Holy Spirit who strengthened the apostles also strengthens us today.
In light of all this, this Sunday is an invitation to trust again in God’s presence. Christ is still near. The Holy Spirit is still active. God still heals hearts, restores hope, and gives new life. Whatever burden you carry today, remember the promise of Jesus: “I will not leave you, orphans.” May we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. May our homes become places of peace. And may our lives bear witness that Christ is alive and remains with His people forever.
Amen.
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