Daily Readings - Wed Jun 11 2025
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 are reminded of the power of faith and the call to live generously. The first reading from Acts describes the early Christian community in Antioch, where the Church was growing rapidly. Barnabas and Saul, guided by the Holy Spirit, were sent out on a mission, trusting in God’s providence. This passage highlights the importance of community, discernment, and obedience to the Spirit. The Gospel from Matthew continues this theme as Jesus instructs his disciples to preach, heal, and trust in God’s provision, emphasizing that those who labor for the kingdom will be sustained.
Both readings invite us to reflect on our own trust in God and our willingness to live simply and generously. In Acts, the Church at Antioch was filled with joy and faith, and they shared their resources freely. Similarly, in Matthew, Jesus calls us to let go of material concerns and focus on the mission of spreading the kingdom. This doesn’t mean we should be careless but rather that we should trust in God’s goodness and provision.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, let us ask ourselves: Do we trust God enough to let go of our need for control or security? Are we willing to share our time, talents, and resources with others? The moral lesson here is clear: faith and generosity go hand in hand. May we, like the early Christians, live with open hearts and hands, trusting that God will provide as we serve others in love.