May 2nd Homily

Post date: Apr 28, 2021 9:49:49 PM

May 2, 2021 Homily by Fr. Karl Schray

Today’s readings are about staying connected. When we were baptized

and when we first believed, we were connected to Jesus Christ.

Now we need to keep the connection.

Did you hear in today’s first reading from Acts of the Apostles—how

Barnabas had to step in and introduce and vouch for the new convert—

Saul (who would soon become Paul)? Only after Barnabas assured

the disciples of Jesus that Saul was a real believer did they accept him.

Then they let him belong and become connected.

Of course, it was Paul’s integrity and willingness to lay down his life

that kept the connection and relationship going.

Jesus says, “I am the true vine, and you are the branches”. This was a

wonderful symbol for the people of Israel and their relationship with God.

A huge golden vine decorated the front of the Temple in Jerusalem. Jesus

applied this image to himself and invited his followers to find their life and growth and fruitfulness in Him. Therefore, it is a great image for us too.

Of course, it is not just picturesque, it is incredibly challenging.

Remaining one with and attached to the one true vine

requires focus and making Jesus our top priority.

So many people say, ‘I am too busy’. When we are too busy to pray,

we are too busy, period. Staying connected requires regular care,

sometimes of a radical nature. (radical means at the roots).

Jesus wants us to clean out the dead branches and

prune the live branches so they will bear much fruit.

Union with Christ is essential, separation from Him is fruitless.