Daily Readings - Tue Apr 21 2020
Acts
32All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.33With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.34There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales35and put it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.36Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement),37sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles' feet.
John
7You should not be surprised at my saying, 'You must be born again.'8The wind blows wherever it pleases. You hear its sound, but you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit."9"How can this be?" Nicodemus asked.10"You are Israel's teacher," said Jesus, "and do you not understand these things?11I tell you the truth, we speak of what we know, and we testify to what we have seen, but still you people do not accept our testimony.12I have spoken to you of earthly things and you do not believe; how then will you believe if I speak of heavenly things?13No one has ever gone into heaven except the one who came from heaven--the Son of Man.14Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the desert, so the Son of Man must be lifted up,15that everyone who believes in him may have eternal life.
Sermon
The first reading from Acts describes the early Christian community’s remarkable unity and generosity. Believers shared all possessions, ensuring no one was in need. This selfless love was a testament to their faith in the Resurrection of Jesus, and it reflected the grace and power of God at work among them. The example of Barnabas, who sold his land to support the community, highlights the transformative power of living for others in response to God’s love.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks to Nicodemus about the necessity of being “born anew” by the Spirit. He explains that the Spirit works mysteriously, and spiritual rebirth is not about human effort but about surrendering to God’s grace. Jesus then connects this spiritual truth to his own mission, emphasizing that belief in him is essential for eternal life. Just as Moses lifted up the serpent to save the people, Jesus must be lifted up on the cross to save humanity.
Together, these readings remind us that faith is not just about words or ideas but about living in a way that reflects God’s love and generosity. The early Christians showed that belief in the Resurrection leads to radical love and selflessness. Similarly, Jesus calls us to trust in him and his plan, even when it seems mysterious or difficult to understand. Let us ask for the grace to live with open hearts, trusting in God’s Spirit to guide us and transform us. May our lives reflect the love and generosity that flow from being born anew in Christ.