Monday of the 5th Week of Eastertide 

Not to us, O Lord, but to your name give the glory!

Acts 14:5-18
Psalm 113B(115):1-4,15-16
John 14:21-26

Today’s first reading from Acts kicks off with an electrifying scene: a crowd is ready to murder Paul and Barnabas! But in a stunning twist, it wraps up with another crowd eager to worship them as if they were gods! This dynamic shift perfectly highlights the unpredictable nature of human respect. Everyone has had their fair share of dealing with this reality, but perhaps none more so than those passionately striving to live out their Christian faith.

In one moment, we may face mockery or outright hatred for standing firm on moral grounds that some dismiss as “out of touch” or “intolerant.” Yet in another, we earn praise for our charitable deeds and our ability to accept others with grace. It’s a rollercoaster ride, and too often, we let the quest for human approval steer our decisions. When we stand by in silence as God’s principles are disrespected, we choose the fleeting opinions of people over enduring divine truths. And when our good deeds are performed for the sake of applause rather than to glorify God, we have effectively allowed human respect to take the throne of our hearts.

But here’s the exciting part: in the Gospel, Jesus passionately calls us to follow His commands—not for the accolades, but out of love for Him! If our motivation is rooted in our love for Christ, the opinions of the crowd become insignificant. The promise that our loving obedience will invite both Jesus and the Father to dwell within us makes all worldly praise and criticism pale in comparison.

Let’s proclaim boldly, “Not to us, O Lord, but to Your name give the glory!” Amen!

Fr Joseph Osho