A man once visited a cathedral under construction. He saw three workers laying stones. He asked the first, “What are you doing?” The man replied, “I’m cutting stones.” He asked the second, who said, “I’m building a wall.” But when he asked the third, the man smiled and said, “I’m building a house for God.” All three were doing the same work—but with very different understanding and purpose. Today’s readings invite us to reflect on this deeper vision of life and mission.

In the first reading from Acts, we see a problem in the early Church. Some widows were being  neglected in the daily distribution. The apostles did not ignore the issue. Instead, they acted wisely. They said, “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.” So they appointed seven men—full of the Spirit and wisdom—to take care of this responsibility. This moment is very important. It shows us that the Church is not just about prayer or just about service—it is both. The apostles remained focused on prayer and preaching, while others were entrusted with service. Each had a role, and every role was sacred. Like the workers in the story, what matters is not just what we do, but how we see what we do.

In the Gospel, Jesus speaks words of great comfort: “Do not let your hearts be troubled.” He knows the disciples are confused and afraid. He is about to leave them. But He reassures them: “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Thomas asks a very honest question: “Lord, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” And Jesus responds not with directions, but with Himself: “I am the way.” This is the heart of our faith. Christianity is not simply following rules or performing  duties. It is following a Person—Jesus Himself.

And then Philip asks, “Show us the Father.” Jesus replies, “Whoever has seen me has seen the  Father.” In other words, if you want to know God, look at Jesus—His compassion, His service, His love, His sacrifice.

Now let us connect both readings. The apostles organized the community so that both prayer and service could flourish. Why? Because they were following Jesus—the Way. Jesus Himself served others, healed the sick, fed the hungry, and proclaimed the Word of God. So, to follow Jesus means to live a balanced life of faith and service.

Some of us may think, “I am just doing small tasks—helping at home, working, assisting others.” But remember the third worker in the story: “I am building a house for God.” Every act done with love  becomes part of God’s work.

Jesus also says something powerful: “Whoever believes in me will do the works that I do—and even greater works.” That is a challenge. Jesus is inviting us not just to admire Him, but to continue His mission. So the question for us today is: How do I see my life? Am I just “cutting stones”? Or am I building something for God? When we teach, help, forgive, listen, serve, or pray—we are walking in “the Way,” we are reflecting “the Truth,” and we are sharing “the Life” of Christ. Let us not be  troubled by difficulties or confusion. Instead, let us trust in Jesus. Let us follow Him with faith and commitment. And like the early Church, let us use our gifts—whether in prayer, service, leadership, or care—so that God’s work may continue in our world. Because in the end, every small act done in Christ becomes part of something much greater: the building of God’s kingdom. Amen.

Fr. Tomy Thomas