Choosing to obey God’s Word and follow His ways even during difficult times.

Repentance & Realigning turning away from self-centeredness

to return to God's path, Aligning your life with Christ.

 

＊＊＊ 1st Reading ＊＊＊    

Acts 4:32-37

The whole community

Of believers was one in heart and mind. No one claimed private ownership of any possessions,

but rather, they shared all things in common.

With great powers the apostles bore witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,

for all of them were living in an exceptional time of grace.

 

There was no needy person among them, for those who owned land or houses,

sold them and brought the proceeds of the sale and they laid it at the feet of the apostles,

who distributed it, according to each one's need. This is what a certain Joseph did.

He was a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas, meaning:

"The encouraging one." He sold a field which he owned and handed the money to the apostles.

 

Ps 93:1ab, 1cd-2, 5

The Lord is king; he is robed in majesty.

 

＊＊＊ Gospel ＊＊＊      

John 3:7b-15

Because of this, don't be surprised when I say, You must be born again from above.

The wind blows where it pleases and you hear its sound,

but you don't know where it comes from or where it is going.

It is like that with everyone who is born of the Spirit" Nicodemus asked again,

"How can this be?" And Jesus answered. "

You are a teacher in Israel, and you don't know these things!

 

Truly, I say to you, we speak of what we know and we witness to the things we have seen,

but you don't accept our testimony. If you don't believe when I speak of earthly things,

what then when I speak to you of heavenly things?

No one has ever gone up to heaven except the one who came from heaven,

the Son of Man. As Moses lifted up the serpent in the desert,

so must the Son of Man be lifted up, so that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.

 

Gospel Reflection ：

Aligning our lives with Christ.

How can this be? The call to be "born again" presents a unique challenge for busy Christians.

The fast pace of modern life often leaves little room for spiritual renewal, as work commitments,

family responsibilities, and societal expectations demand much of our time and energy.

In this whirlwind, the deep introspection and intentional transformation required

for being born again can easily be overlooked or postponed.

 

Moreover, while technology and social media can provide moments of connection and inspiration,

they can also dilute our focus on spiritual priorities.

The pressure to conform to societal norms and achieve success by worldly standards often conflicts

with the surrender and humility required to fully embrace God's kingdom.

For many, finding time for prayer, reflection,

 

and genuine communion with God becomes a struggle amidst competing demands.

Yet, these challenges also emphasize the importance of prioritizing spiritual growth.

To be born again is not a task to be checked off but a continuous journey of grace.

It urges busy Christians to rediscover the necessity of aligning

their lives with Christ and His eternal purpose. Amen.