Daily Readings - Tue May 05 2020
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
In today's readings, we explore themes of expansion, inclusion, and the deep trust in God's plan. The First Reading from Acts describes the early Christian community's growth, as they spread the Gospel beyond Jewish communities to Gentiles, illustrating a pivotal moment of inclusion. Barnabas's role in uniting the Church and bringing Saul to Antioch highlights collaboration and the importance of shared faith. The Gospel from John features Jesus describing his followers as sheep who hear his voice, emphasizing trust and recognition of his divine role.
The readings connect through the idea of unity and faith. The early Church's ability to include Gentiles was rooted in their trust in Jesus' teachings, as seen in the Gospel. Jesus' assurance of security and oneness with the Father reflects the faith that guided the early Christians to expand their community beyond cultural boundaries, demonstrating that true faith transcends differences.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace diversity and trust in God's plan. Just as the early Church welcomed Gentiles, we should be open to others, fostering unity. Like Jesus' sheep, we must listen to His voice amidst life's noise, trusting in His guidance. The moral lesson here is one of inclusion and faith—believers should come together, trusting in God's plan, just as the early Church did, to create a harmonious and faith-filled community.