Daily Readings - Thu Jun 11 2020
Acts
21And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord.22Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.23Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord.24For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.25Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:26And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
1Now there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas, and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.2As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them.3And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.
Matthew
7And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.8Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.9Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,10Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.11And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.12And when ye come into an house, salute it.13And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in understanding the essence of faith and mission. The first reading from Acts highlights the early Christian community in Antioch, where Barnabas and Saul are set apart by the Holy Spirit for their missionary journey. This passage underscores the Church's growth and the pivotal role of the Holy Spirit in guiding the community's actions. The Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus instructing His disciples to preach, heal, and trust in divine providence, emphasizing a life of simplicity and detachment from material wealth.
Both readings emphasize the Holy Spirit's active role in mission and the importance of trusting in God's providence. In Acts, the Spirit guides the Church in Antioch to recognize and commission Barnabas and Saul for their work. In Matthew, Jesus instructs the disciples to rely on God's provision, teaching them to live simply and generously. This relationship between the readings highlights the consistent theme of trusting God and living selflessly, which is central to the Christian life.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are called to embrace faith and simplicity. We should trust in God's plan and provision, avoiding the temptation to accumulate wealth. Living generously and selflessly allows us to share God's love effectively. The moral lesson here is clear: our faith should lead us to trust in God's providence and live with open hearts, ready to serve and share His love with others.