April 30, 2026 // Thursday of the Fourth Week of Easter // Optional Memorial of Saint Pius V, Pope, Religious
Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: John 13:16-20
Reflect on the Word //
Whispers after lights out. Shared secrets under blankets. The wonder of girlhood rolling into the moods of teenagerhood. She was the first to hear my frustrations but also my joys. My younger sister and I slept feet away from each other for over fifteen years, and our nightly dialogues led to the best of friendships.
Fast forward a few years, and a new roommate entered my life. We quickly learned each other’s moods, patterns, and eating habits. I counted on her to wake me up, so we could pray together in the mornings, and we studied so late into the night it typically turned to laughter and rather silly activities. Again, an intimacy bubbled up and thrived because of the time and vulnerability we poured into our friendship.
Praying with today’s Gospel, I imagine myself at the table amongst Jesus’ closest friends, the twelve Apostles (see John 13:16-20). The familiarity and affection of the moment is palpable. As He approaches the hour of His Death, Jesus leans more into sharing His Heart. I feel the love of this moment, His longing to converse with me too. He wants to share in my moments and have me share in His.
In this snippet of conversation, Jesus leaves His disciples with two key truths: Who He is and who we are. He is a Messiah Who has come as the Son of God to serve us. And service is how we continue living that love that we have received.
It is in regular conversation with Jesus that we can grow to know Him closer than a roommate or sister. And when we make talking with Him a major part of how we start and close our days, checking in frequently throughout the day to share our highs and lows, we will remember how we are to live. Making a point to continually be in an exchange with Him will anchor our hearts in an intimacy that will overflow into the rest of life.
Relate to the Lord // Talk to Jesus from your heart today. Share your highs and lows. Listen for His response.
Sarah Ortiz is a Catholic convert, wife, and mother to five boys while living in a 200-year-old farmhouse in Western New York. When not folding laundry, she can be found reading, experimenting in the kitchen, keeping the family library, or snagging amazing antique furniture deals. She was a contributing author to Set a Fire. Find out more about her here.
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