Daily Readings - Tue May 10 2022
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 witness the early Christian community’s courageous expansion of the Gospel and Jesus’ profound teachings on faith and unity. The first reading from Acts describes how, after Stephen’s martyrdom, dispersed Christians began preaching to Gentiles, marking a pivotal moment in the Church’s growth. The Gospel from John features Jesus at the Feast of Dedication, where he affirms his unity with the Father and describes his followers as his sheep who hear his voice, emphasizing the assurance of eternal life for those who follow him.
These passages highlight the themes of inclusion and recognition. In Acts, the Church’s expansion to Gentiles shows that God’s message is for all, not just the chosen few. Similarly, in John, Jesus’ words invite us to recognize him as the Messiah and to trust in his divine plan. Together, they illustrate the universal call to faith and the personal relationship believers have with Christ.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace diversity and unity. Like the early Christians, we are called to share our faith with others, regardless of background. Jesus’ words remind us to listen to his voice and trust in his guidance, knowing we are secure in his care. Let us strive to be open-hearted and faithful, reflecting God’s love and unity in our actions and relationships.