Daily Readings - Tue May 09 2017
Acts
19Now those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews.20Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus.21The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.22News of this reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch.23When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts.24He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.25Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul,26and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.
John
22Then came the Feast of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter,23and Jesus was in the temple area walking in Solomon's Colonnade.24The Jews gathered around him, saying, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly."25Jesus answered, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. The miracles I do in my Father's name speak for me,26but you do not believe because you are not my sheep.27My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.28I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.29My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand.30I and the Father are one."
Sermon
The first reading from Acts describes the early Christian community’s expansion beyond Jerusalem, as believers, dispersed by persecution, carry the Gospel to new regions. In Antioch, the Good News reaches Gentiles, and many come to faith. Barnabas, a leader filled with the Holy Spirit, is sent to support this growing church, and he brings Saul (Paul) to join the mission. This passage highlights the Church’s universality and the Spirit’s guidance in its growth.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks during the Feast of the Dedication, a time of renewal and remembrance of God’s faithfulness. When questioned about his identity, Jesus emphasizes that his works and the Father’s will testify to who he is. He describes his sheep as those who hear his voice and follow him, promising eternal life and security in the Father’s care. Jesus’ words underscore the intimate relationship between the shepherd and his flock, rooted in trust and obedience.
Today’s readings remind us that faith is not confined to a particular place or people. Like the early Christians in Antioch, we are called to share the Gospel with others, trusting in God’s plan. Jesus, the Good Shepherd, invites us to listen to his voice and follow him with courage and fidelity. Let us embrace this call, trusting in the Father’s care and unity with Christ, as we strive to live as his disciples in a world in need of his love.