Tuesday of the 4th week of Eastertide 


Acts 11:19-26 

c 86(87)

John 10:22-30


LET THE LORD LEAD


In today’s first reading, the Gospel was beginning to spread among the Greeks, with Christ actively guiding the process. 

Luke reminds us that in Antioch, the disciples were called Christians—meaning followers of Christ. This designation signifies living in the love of the risen Christ, guided by the Holy Spirit, and committed to doing the Father’s will. A Christian models Christ, listens to the Master’s voice, and follows His example with steadfastness, secure in divine protection. When news spread among the Greeks about the Gospel, the Jerusalem Church responded by sending Barnabas, a man known for his faith, courage and generosity.




Barnabas, a man filled with the Holy Spirit. He sought out Paul, offered him encouragement, and fulfilled Jesus' word to Ananias, who assisted and supported Paul during his conversion in Damascus. The Church was increasingly dedicated to outreach, embodying a spirit of generosity and truth. With the aid of the Holy Spirit, Barnabas was able to serve effectively. This illustrates that Jesus continues to be active in the world through His followers.



When individuals face challenges alone, the void remains. Barnabas was able to motivate others because he was filled with the Holy Spirit and recognized Christ’s work. Do we encourage others? Do we motivate and support spiritual growth? Are we willing to assist in difficult circumstances, or to persevere alongside others? Are we Christians in name only or in character? Do our actions reflect Christian virtues and true discipleship? Are we truly following Jesus, the Good Shepherd who laid down His life for us, or are we elusive and resistant to His guidance, lost in worldly pursuits? Do we listen to the Shepherd? Do we recognize His voice amidst the noise? Are we responsive to messages of selfless love and obedience, or are we swayed by ego? When Jesus invites us to take His yoke and learn from Him, emphasizing His meekness and humility, do we follow Him wholeheartedly or pursue our own agendas?



Rather than being self-focused, let us seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit. This is achievable through repentance and accepting Jesus as the Truth. It is about Jesus Christ, not ourselves. He transforms everything and uses us to influence those around us and the world at large. His miraculous works continue within the body of the Church. As the Jerusalem Church faced persecution, Jesus remained present; as they spread out, He was with them. Wherever two or three gather in His name, Jesus is there, nourishing and empowering through the Holy Spirit and he assures us today that the Father and He are One, and His followers hear His voice and follow Him. 



May we praise the King of glory in all our endeavors today, and may our Blessed Mother guide us in being filled with the Holy Spirit.

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