Daily Readings - Tue May 09 2017
Acts
19Now those who were scattered because of the persecution that arose over Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia and Cyprus and Antioch, speaking the word to no one except Jews.20But there were some of them, men of Cyprus and Cyrene, who on coming to Antioch spoke to the Hellenists also, preaching the Lord Jesus.21And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number who believed turned to the Lord.22The report of this came to the ears of the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.23When he came and saw the grace of God, he was glad, and he exhorted them all to remain faithful to the Lord with steadfast purpose,24for he was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith. And a great many people were added to the Lord.25So Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul,26and when he had found him, he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the church and taught a great many people. And in Antioch the disciples were first called Christians.
John
22At that time the Feast of Dedication took place at Jerusalem. It was winter,23and Jesus was walking in the temple, in the colonnade of Solomon.24So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly."25Jesus answered them, "I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in my Father's name bear witness about me,26but you do not believe because you are not part of my flock.27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.28I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand.29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father's hand.30I and the Father are one."
Sermon
The first reading from Acts describes the early Christian community’s expansion beyond Jerusalem, as believers, dispersed by persecution, carry the Gospel to new regions. In Antioch, the Good News reaches Gentiles, and many come to faith. Barnabas, a leader filled with the Holy Spirit, is sent to support this growing church, and he brings Saul (Paul) to join the mission. This passage highlights the Church’s universality and the Spirit’s guidance in its growth.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks during the Feast of the Dedication, a time of renewal and remembrance of God’s faithfulness. When questioned about his identity, Jesus emphasizes that his works and the Father’s will testify to who he is. He describes his sheep as those who hear his voice and follow him, promising eternal life and security in the Father’s care. Jesus’ words underscore the intimate relationship between the shepherd and his flock, rooted in trust and obedience.
Today’s readings remind us that faith is not confined to a particular place or people. Like the early Christians in Antioch, we are called to share the Gospel with others, trusting in God’s plan. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, invites us to listen to his voice and follow him with courage and fidelity. Let us embrace this call, trusting in the Father’s care and unity with Christ, as we strive to live as his disciples in a world in need of his love.