Thursday of the Fifth Week of Easter
John 15: 9-11
Abide in My Love: A Pilgrimage of the Heart

Love is the very heart of life. Jesus invites us to abide in his love, because only by loving can we experience true joy and fullness of life. Yet, love is not always easy. Our relationships often reveal how easily jealousy, anger, and selfishness can creep into our hearts.

Love cannot be compelled or forced; it needs to be given willingly. This is why the Words of Jesus today pose a challenge before us: “If you want to remain in my love, keep my commandments.” While Jesus loves us without conditions, He encourages us to respond freely. Holding onto resentment or hatred sets us apart from the nurturing love that he provides.

Abiding in Jesus’ love is not a passive act. It requires daily effort — choosing forgiveness over bitterness, sacrifice over selfishness, and compassion over indifference. True love is a sweet burden, calling us to grow in patience, mercy, and trust.

The early Church, as seen in the Acts of the Apostles, faced many divisions and trials. Yet, it was through Christ-like understanding and persistent love that they found unity and strength. Today, we are called to the same path, especially in a world wounded by war, hatred, and mistrust.

To walk this pilgrimage of hope means choosing love daily, forgiving generously, and keeping our hearts open to others’ needs. It is a journey that demands perseverance, but it leads to the deep joy that Christ promises.

As we abide in Jesus, His life flows through us like the sap of a vine, bearing fruits of peace, justice, and joy. In a world thirsting for hope, our choice to love becomes a powerful testimony. Abide in his love, we will become living signs of hope for the world.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025