Daily Readings for May 9, 2017

1ST READING

The early Christians assisted Paul in his proclamation of the Gospel and helped form communities in the places he traveled to. Christians who returned to their homeland because of the persecution in Jerusalem had been a good foundation on which Paul built the Church. When we form Christian communities, we must build wisely. The leaders of communities must undergo formation and become spiritually mature to be able to care for their flock.

Acts 11:19-26

19 Those who had been scattered by the persecution that arose because of Stephen went as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to no one but Jews. 20 There were some Cypriots and Cyrenians among them, however, who came to Antioch and began to speak to the Greeks as well, proclaiming the Lord Jesus. 21 The hand of the Lord was with them and a great number who believed turned to the Lord. 22 The news about them reached the ears of the Church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch. 23 When he  arrived and saw the grace of God, he rejoiced and encouraged them all to remain faithful to the Lord in firmness of heart, 24 for he was a good man, filled with the Holy Spirit and faith. And a large number of people was added to the Lord. 25 Then he went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he had found him he brought him to Antioch. For a whole year they met with the Church and  taught a large number of people, and it was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.

P S A L M

Psalm 87:1-3, 4-5, 6-7

R: All you nations, praise the Lord.

1 His foundation upon the holy mountains 2 the Lord loves: The gates of Zion, more than any dwelling of Jacob. 3 Glorious things are said of you, O city of God! (R) 4 I tell of Egypt and Babylon among those who know the Lord; Of Philistia, Tyre, Ethiopia: “This man was born there.” 5 And of Zion they shall say: “One and all were born in her; and he who has established her is the Most High Lord.” (R) 6 They shall note, when the peoples are enrolled: “This man was born there.” 7 And all shall sing, in their festive dance: “My home is within you.” (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus appealed to the people’s common sense. He reminded them that those who believe knew His voice and recognized Him as Savior and Lord. Their doubt hindered the growth of their faith. The Jews knew that their faith lacked something. They saw the solution in the ministry of Jesus. But the people still had to recognize and accept Jesus was the Messiah.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

John 10:22-30

22 The feast of the Dedication was then taking place in Jerusalem. It was winter. 23 And Jesus walked about in the temple area on the Portico of Solomon. 24 So the Jews gathered around him and said to him, “How long are you going to keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” 25 Jesus answered them, “I told you and you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify to me. 26 But you do not believe, because you are not among my sheep. 27 My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish. No one can take them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one can take them out of the Father’s hand. 30 The Father and I are one.”