Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter

• First Reading – Acts 13:13-25: Paul recounts Israel’s history from Egypt to King David, leading to Jesus, the promised savior. John the Baptist proclaimed repentance and announced Jesus’ coming.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: God’s kindness and faithfulness endure forever. He has chosen and anointed David, promising to support and strengthen him. David will call God his Father, Rock, and Savior.
• Gospel – John 13:16-20: After washing the disciples’ feet, Jesus taught them about humility and service, predicting his betrayal to strengthen their faith. He emphasized that receiving his messengers is equivalent to receiving him and God.

Lectionary Reference: 282

Upcoming dates: May 15, 2025, April 30, 2026, April 22, 2027, May 11, 2028, April 26, 2029, May 16, 2030, May 8, 2031, April 22, 2032, May 12, 2033

Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever receives the one I send receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me.

John 13:20

The readings for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter reflect on God’s faithfulness, the role of His servants, and the humility of Jesus. They remind us of the story of salvation and the importance of following Christ’s example of service.

• God’s Faithfulness Through History: In the first reading, Paul recounts how God guided His people from the time of their ancestors. This reminds us that God’s promises are steady and trustworthy across generations.
• The Role of John the Baptist: Paul speaks about John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus. This highlights the importance of humility and pointing others to Christ.
• Humility in Service: In the Gospel, Jesus emphasizes the role of the servant. He shows that true greatness comes from serving others with love and humility.
• Recognizing God’s Work: Both readings call us to see how God has been active in history and in our lives. They encourage us to trust in His plan and be open to His call.
• Jesus’ Example of Love: The Gospel shows Jesus teaching His disciples to follow His example. His love is seen in how He serves and cares for others.
• God’s Plan for Salvation: Paul speaks about how God’s plan unfolded through the history of Israel and led to Jesus. This reminds us that God’s plan is always working for the good of His people.

Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter encourages us to reflect on God’s faithfulness and the example of Jesus. The readings call us to live in humility, serve others with love, and trust in God’s plan throughout our lives.

The readings for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter invite us to reflect on God’s faithfulness, the call to humility, and how He works through ordinary people. Paul recounts the history of salvation, reminding us of God’s steady care, while Jesus shows us the importance of serving others with love. These reflections encourage us to trust in God’s plan and follow Christ’s example in our daily lives.

God’s Faithfulness Through History

In the first reading for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter, Paul speaks about how God guided His people from the time of their ancestors. He recounts how God led Israel through the wilderness, established them in the promised land, and prepared the way for Jesus. This history reminds us of God’s steady care for His people.

God’s promises have always been trustworthy, and His actions in history show that He never abandons His people. Paul’s words encourage us to look back and see how God has been faithful in our own lives. When we face challenges, remembering His faithfulness can give us hope and strength.

This reflection invites us to trust in God’s plan, even when we do not fully understand it. Just as He guided Israel and fulfilled His promises through Jesus, He continues to guide and care for us today.

Humility in Service

In the Gospel for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter, Jesus teaches that true greatness comes through serving others. He explains that His followers are called to follow His example by acting as servants. This message turns the idea of leadership upside down, showing that humility is the key to living as one of His disciples.

Jesus Himself showed what it means to be a servant. Through His actions, He cared for others, healed the sick, and taught with love. He calls His followers to do the same, to put the needs of others before their own and to serve with humility.

This teaching challenges us to reflect on how we treat others in our daily lives. Are we willing to serve without seeking recognition? By following Jesus’ example, we show His love to those around us and grow in faith.

God’s Work in Ordinary Lives

Both the first reading and the Gospel for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter highlight how God works through ordinary people. Paul speaks of Israel’s history, showing how God used imperfect leaders like David to accomplish His plan. In the Gospel, Jesus calls His disciples, simple people, to be servants and carry on His mission.

God’s work does not depend on extraordinary people or events. He chooses to act through those who are willing to trust Him and follow His call. This shows us that no matter our background or abilities, we can be part of God’s plan.

These readings remind us to say yes to God’s call, even in small ways. Whether it is serving others, sharing His message, or living with kindness, God can use our lives to bring His love to the world.

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The reflections for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter remind us that God’s promises never fail and that He calls us to live with humility and faith. As we reflect on His work in our lives, may we be inspired to serve others and follow His will with open hearts.

Prayer

Lord, thank You for Your faithfulness through every part of our lives. Teach us to serve others with love and humility, following the example of Jesus. Help us to trust in Your plan and to recognize Your work in our ordinary days. May we always seek to do Your will. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• How has God shown His faithfulness in your life?
• What does it mean to you to serve others with humility?
• How can you trust God to use your life in His plan?
• In what ways can you follow Jesus’ example of love and service?

Word on Fire: The Mystery of Evil

On Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on Jesus announcing his betrayal after the Last Supper. This highlights the contrast between the sacred meal and the evil of betrayal. Judas, who was close to Jesus, chose to betray him, showing the mystery of evil.

Bishop Barron reminds us that those who share in Christ’s meal but still engage in sin should see themselves in Judas. This reflection calls us to be aware of our actions and stay true to Jesus’ teachings.

What date is Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter?

The next date is Thursday May 15, 2025.

What are the Mass readings for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter?

The Mass readings for Thursday May 15, 2025 are:
First Reading  – Acts 13:13-25: Paul’s Speech in the Synagogue
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: Singing of the Lord’s Goodness
Gospel – John 13:16-20: A Lesson in Service

Why does Paul talk about Israel’s history in the first reading for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter?

Paul shares Israel’s history to show how God has been faithful and active throughout time. He reminds the listeners that Jesus is part of God’s plan for salvation.

Who was John the Baptist, and what was his role?

John the Baptist prepared the way for Jesus by calling people to repentance. He pointed others to Christ and humbly acknowledged his role as a servant.

What does the first reading teach about God’s plan?

The first reading shows that God’s plan has been unfolding throughout history. It reminds us that God is always working for the good of His people.

Why does Paul mention the people of Israel in his speech?

Paul highlights Israel’s history to show how God’s promises were fulfilled in Jesus. He connects the past with the message of salvation through Christ.

What can we learn from John the Baptist’s humility?

John the Baptist teaches us to focus on leading others to Jesus, not on ourselves. His humility shows the importance of trusting God’s plan.

What does Jesus mean by the servant not being greater than the master in the Gospel for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter?

Jesus is teaching that His followers are called to serve others, just as He served. He shows that humility is an important part of being His disciple.

How can we follow Jesus’ example of service?

We can follow His example by helping others with love and humility. Serving those in need reflects the care and kindness Jesus showed.

How does the Gospel teach us about love?

The Gospel shows Jesus demonstrating love through humble service. His actions remind us that true love is expressed through care and selflessness.

How does Jesus’ example in the Gospel apply to our lives?

Jesus shows us that serving others is a way to live out our faith. By putting others’ needs first, we follow His example of love and care.

What do the readings for Thursday of the 4th Week of Easter teach about trusting God?

The readings remind us to trust in God’s faithfulness and His plan for our lives. They show that God has been guiding His people through history and continues to do so.