Thursday of the Third Week of Easter
Continuing in the Easter tradition, we hear of the Ethiopian eunuch who was so moved by Philip’s words describing Jesus that he wanted to become Christian. For cradle Catholics, it might be easy to forget why we are hold to the truths of the Church, but for those who came into the Church through RCIA, there is a wonderful transformation from sin and death into love and eternal life. It is through the eunuch that we get a beautiful story describing this transformation, for despite Philip being snatched away, the eunuch “continued on his way rejoicing” (Acts 8:39). Jesus reiterates this point that true and eternal life is gained by those who partake in His Flesh (John 6:51). As we continue in this Easter season, let us continue to be on fire for Christ and spread this love to others!
An example of this love for Christ is also present in the memorial of Saint George, which the Roman Catholic Church recognizes today. Traditionally portrayed as a soldier on a horse thrusting a spear at a dragon, George served as a soldier under the pagan emperor Diocletian. After Diocletian issued an edict that soldiers must worship the Roman gods, George publically proclaimed his belief in Christ. Upset that one of his soldiers would resist, Diocletian had him tortured and in customary Roman tradition, beheaded. On this memorial of the patron saint for soldiers, we pray for those men and women who have served and are serving in the armed forces around the world.