St. Bartholomew
Rev. 21:9-14
Psalm 144(145):10-13a,17-18
John 1:45-51
St. Bartholomew, traditionally linked with Nathanael—who appears in the first chapter of St. John’s Gospel— is often believed to have later preached the Christian faith in India.
The first reading (Revelation 21:9–14) shows the Apostles as the foundation of the New Jerusalem. This emphasizes that the Church is built on the faith and witness of the Apostles. We learn about faith through their teachings, and their example continues to inspire and strengthen us today.
In the Gospel of John (1:45–51), Jesus recognizes Nathanael as an honest, sincere, and faithful person. His example reminds us that God can call ordinary people to do extraordinary things.
Being part of the apostolic Church involves more than just receiving faith from the Apostles. We are called to carry on their mission. Like them, we are sent into the world to share the Good News of Jesus Christ through our words, actions, and everyday lives.
The original Apostles weren't perfect when Jesus called them—they were ordinary people facing fear, uncertainty, and weakness. For example, when Jesus was arrested, they were afraid and ran away. At first, they weren’t fully prepared for the mission ahead. But as they grew closer to Jesus, understood His teachings better, and received the Holy Spirit, they became courageous witnesses. They were willing to suffer and even die to spread the Gospel and bring glory toIs od.
This shows that God doesn’t expect us to be perfect before He calls us. What matters most is our willingness to develop a relationship with Christ and let the Holy Spirit transform us. Every Christian is called to become a saint—a holy man or woman of God—and an apostle, meaning someone sent out on a mission.
Sometimes, the mission may seem impossible, but the reflection reminds us that “with God, all things are possible.” We are invited to accept Christ’s call and continue His work by treating others with fairness, loving-kindness, patience, mercy, and goodness.
Finally, we are called to embrace the love shown through the Cross and the hope revealed through the Resurrection. Having received God’s love and mercy, we are to share that love with others—helping build God’s Kingdom, working for justice, promoting peace, caring for those in need, and spreading the Good News of Christ.
The key point is that every Christian is called to be an apostle. We inherit the faith from the Apostles, but we also share the responsibility of carrying on their mission. Like the first Apostles, we may start with fears and weaknesses, but through a closer relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit’s power, we can become brave witnesses of the Gospel.
Our calling isn’t just to believe in Christ, but to live His love, proclaim His Good News, work for justice and peace, and help build God’s Kingdom in the world.
Pray for me as I celebrate my birthday.
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