Today's first reading tells of the disciples deciding to accept Saul. The story of Saul's conversion into Paul is one that has always given me hope for those of my friends who have spoken out against Jesus and His teachings. Saul persecuted Christians, but with his conversion became the one to bring Jesus's teachings throughout much of the Roman Empire. I've heard it said that converts tend to be the most zealous of followers, and that certainly seems to be the case with Paul.
The second reading reminds us that words are not enough, we need to love with our actions and deeds. Jesus asks us to love one another and stay true to His teachings. These are not difficult or burdensome requests, but not many follow them nonetheless.
Today's Gospel has a song running through my mind. "I am the vine; you are the branches, and all who live in me will bear great fruit." In this season of spring as life is blooming all around us, we too can bring forth goodness and life through our words and actions. We are God's hands on this Earth. Through Him, living in Him, we can accomplish great things.