Daily Readings - Tue May 05 2020
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
In today's readings, we explore themes of expansion, inclusion, and the deep trust in God's plan. The First Reading from Acts describes the early Christian community's growth, as they spread the Gospel beyond Jewish communities to Gentiles, illustrating a pivotal moment of inclusion. Barnabas's role in uniting the Church and bringing Saul to Antioch highlights collaboration and the importance of shared faith. The Gospel from John features Jesus describing his followers as sheep who hear his voice, emphasizing trust and recognition of his divine role.
The readings connect through the idea of unity and faith. The early Church's ability to include Gentiles was rooted in their trust in Jesus' teachings, as seen in the Gospel. Jesus' assurance of security and oneness with the Father reflects the faith that guided the early Christians to expand their community beyond cultural boundaries, demonstrating that true faith transcends differences.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace diversity and trust in God's plan. Just as the early Church welcomed Gentiles, we should be open to others, fostering unity. Like Jesus' sheep, we must listen to His voice amidst life's noise, trusting in His guidance. The moral lesson here is one of inclusion and faith—believers should come together, trusting in God's plan, just as the early Church did, to create a harmonious and faith-filled community.