Acts 15:7-21/ Ps 96:1-2a. 2b-3. 10/ Jn15:9-11

Jesus wants us to abide in his love which entails keeping to the commandment of love of God and our neighbors. This is why having examined the controversy that was tabled as the first Council of Jerusalem, the elders and the apostles decided not to make things more difficult for the Gentiles who turn to God. They came to the understanding that God loves the Gentiles as he loves them, and wants them too to be saved. The council, therefore, made conscious efforts to arrive at decisions that would enable the Gentiles too find their way to God, instead of being an obstacle to them. It is important to ask ourselves these questions: Do we have laws in our Christian communities, pious societies, groups or places of work that have become obstacles to others seeking God genuinely? Do I expect from others certain standards and holiness that I myself cannot attain?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, it is your will that sinners may find their way back to you. Give me the grace to be a channel that enables repentance and not one that blocks it. Amen.