Daily Readings - Tue Apr 24 2018
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 readings today invite us to reflect on the growth of the early Church and the profound relationship between Jesus and his followers. In the first reading from Acts, we see the Church expanding beyond Jerusalem, even to Gentiles, as Barnabas and Saul minister in Antioch. This growth, despite the challenges of persecution, shows the power of the Holy Spirit guiding the early Christians. The term "Christian" is first used here, signifying a new identity rooted in faith in Jesus Christ.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about his sheep hearing his voice and following him, emphasizing the intimate bond between him and his disciples. He assures them of eternal life and security in his care, highlighting the unity he shares with the Father. This passage reminds us that faith is not just about belief but about a deep, personal connection with Jesus.
These readings encourage us to embrace the Spirit's guidance in our lives, just as the early Church did. They remind us to listen for Jesus's voice and to trust in his care. In a world full of noise, may we remain united to Christ, following him with resolve and openness to the Spirit's lead.