Welcome to "A Word of Hope" for Friday, May 8th (Friday of the 5th Week of Easter) by Fr. Bob Keller, OP. Today is a special day as we also celebrate the 1st anniversary of the election of Pope Leo XIV!
In today’s Gospel from John 15, Jesus makes a world-changing statement: *"I no longer call you slaves, but friends."* But what does it actually mean to be a friend of the Creator? Does "friendship" mean we don't have to follow the commandments, or are the commandments the very path to that intimacy?
Join us as we discuss how to build a transparent, honest, and loving relationship with the Risen Lord through silent prayer, confession, and trust—even when life feels like a "work in progress."
**In this video, you’ll discover:**
* The true meaning of Jesus' command to love.
* How to move away from "leaning in to sin" and toward human fulfillment.
* The importance of transparency and silent listening in prayer.
* Finding hope in salvation even when the world feels like a mess.
* A special blessing for the anniversary of Pope Leo XIV.
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### 🕒 Video Timestamps
**0:00** - Introduction & Word of Hope (May 8th)
**0:10** - Anniversary Celebration: Pope Leo XIV
**0:21** - Our Shared Best Friend: Jesus Christ
**0:28** - Gospel Reflection: John 15 (Slaves vs. Friends)
**0:36** - Are the Commandments Difficult?
**0:58** - Leaning into Love vs. Leaning into Sin
**1:18** - The Requirements of Friendship: Trust & Confidence
**1:37** - Transparency: The Role of Silent Prayer and Listening
**2:03** - Growing Deeper Through Confession
**2:15** - Suffering and the "Messy" World: A Work in Progress
**2:46** - Relishing Your Relationship with the Beloved
**2:58** - Final Blessing: Responding to the Invitation of Friendship
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### 📖 Scripture Reference:
* **Gospel:** John 15:12-17 (I have called you friends)
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