Daily Readings - Tue May 10 2022
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 witness the early Christian community’s courageous expansion of the Gospel and Jesus’ profound teachings on faith and unity. The first reading from Acts describes how, after Stephen’s martyrdom, dispersed Christians began preaching to Gentiles, marking a pivotal moment in the Church’s growth. The Gospel from John features Jesus at the Feast of Dedication, where he affirms his unity with the Father and describes his followers as his sheep who hear his voice, emphasizing the assurance of eternal life for those who follow him.
These passages highlight the themes of inclusion and recognition. In Acts, the Church’s expansion to Gentiles shows that God’s message is for all, not just the chosen few. Similarly, in John, Jesus’ words invite us to recognize him as the Messiah and to trust in his divine plan. Together, they illustrate the universal call to faith and the personal relationship believers have with Christ.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace diversity and unity. Like the early Christians, we are called to share our faith with others, regardless of background. Jesus’ words remind us to listen to his voice and trust in his guidance, knowing we are secure in his care. Let us strive to be open-hearted and faithful, reflecting God’s love and unity in our actions and relationships.