A Day of Reflection: Catholic Gospel for Saturday, May 17, 2025
As the liturgical calendar turns, the Catholic Church marks Saturday, May 17, 2025, as a day of reflection within the Fourth week of Easter. The day honors Saint Paskalis Baylon and the Pengkaku Faith, utilizing white liturgical colors to signify the season’s joy and renewal.
The Liturgical Readings
The day’s readings offer profound insights into faith, rejection, and the spread of the Gospel. The first reading, taken from Acts 13:44-52, recounts a pivotal moment in the early Church.
Acts 13:44-52: A Turning Point
The passage describes a significant event:
On the next Sabbath, almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of God.
However, the narrative quickly shifts to conflict and rejection.
However, when the Jews saw the crowd, they were jealous of them and while they were arguing, they objected to what Paul said.
this opposition leads to a bold declaration by Paul and Barnabas:
But daring Paul and Barnabas said:
It is true that the word of God should be told first, but you reject it and think you are not worthy of living. Thus we turn to other nations.Acts 13:46
They emphasize their divine mandate:
This is what we have commanded: I have decided that you are shining for the nations that do not know God, that you may bring salvation to the end of the earth.Acts 13:47
The response from those who had not previously known God is one of joy and acceptance:
Hearing it is indeed to be happy with all those who do not know God and they glorify the word of God; And all the people whom God has persistent for eternal life, to believe.
The reading concludes with the spread of the Gospel and the persecution faced by Paul and barnabas:
Then the Word of God was broadcast throughout the area.
The Jews incited leading women who feared God, and the leaders of the city, and they caused persecution on Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from the area.
But Paul and Barnabas release their foot dust as a reminder to the people, and go to the iconium.
Did You Know?
The act of shaking dust from one’s feet was a symbolic gesture used by jewish people returning to Israel from Gentile lands, signifying a separation from the impurity of those lands. Paul and Barnabas used this gesture to indicate their separation from those who rejected the Gospel.
Further Reflection
The readings for May 17, 2025, invite contemplation on themes of acceptance, rejection, and the worldwide call to salvation. They highlight the importance of remaining open to the Word of God and embracing the mission to share it with others, even in the face of adversity.
Pro Tip
Consider journaling yoru reflections on the daily readings. Writing down your thoughts and prayers can deepen your understanding and connection to the scriptures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the importance of the white liturgical color?
A: White symbolizes purity, joy, and triumph, and is used during the Easter season.
Q: Who was Saint Paskalis Baylon?
A: Saint Paskalis baylon was a Spanish religious brother known for his devotion to the Eucharist.
Q: What is the main message of Acts 13:44-52?
A: The passage highlights the spread of the Gospel to the Gentiles after its rejection by some Jewish people, emphasizing the universality of God’s salvation.
