May 11, 2019 Saturday of the 3rd Week of Easter-C

Acts of the Apostles 9:31-42

Psalm 116

John 6:60-69

… with the consolation of the Holy Spirit (the Church) grew in numbers.  Acts 9:31

… many of his disciples returned to their former way of life… John 6:66

Lord, we hear today in Acts how vibrant and exciting your early followers where in Israel.  We also hear that many of your followers left you upon hearing your words about the Eucharist.  When times are good people are eager to accept your call to discipleship.  But when confronted with what they called a “hard saying” they walked away and returned to living without you.  Times haven’t changed much.  Today, people come and go in your Church.  I am saddened when I hear of a friend or family member who no longer walks with you or believes in you.  On the other hand I have great joy at the Easter Vigil when our Catechumens are baptized.  I pray today for all of them.  How did they lose what they once had?  Lord, please use me to share the good news of your Resurrection and offer of eternal life.  You are the way, the truth and the life.  Guide me to witness to someone who needs to experience your great love for them.  The Gospel is a demanding way of life.  But the reward makes it all worth it.  Amen.