Are You Trying To Navigate Life’s Struggles All Alone?

TUESDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK OF EASTER

Acts 11:19-26
Ps 86(87)
Jn 10:22-30

There is absolutely nothing God cannot do! Picture this: the Church in Jerusalem is buzzing with anticipation as they ponder the miraculous conversion of Cornelius and his family, all thanks to the dynamic power of the Holy Spirit working through Peter.

Meanwhile, the Gospel is bursting forth among the Greeks, and Christ is at the very center of this exhilarating movement! Enter Barnabas, a true beacon of encouragement and generosity. Just imagine the incredible marvels the Lord accomplished through him! Barnabas, filled to the brim with the Holy Spirit and unwavering faith, embarks on a mission to find Paul, uplifting him in the spirit of the Lord’s message to Ananias back in Damascus! This powerful example shows us that Jesus is alive and active in the world through His followers!

This was the dawn of evangelism among the Gentiles! Jesus charged His disciples, saying, “Go out into the world and preach the Good News!” He continued to instruct His Jewish brothers on how to become authentic disciples.

The Church blossomed into a vibrant community, marked by generosity and outreach, eager to preach the truth and tackle the challenges ahead. Barnabas thrived in his mission because he was empowered by the Holy Spirit. When you’re trying to navigate life’s struggles all alone, a void emerges. It’s the Holy Spirit that breathes life into our efforts. Barnabas inspired others by witnessing the mighty work of Christ and the vibrant action of the Holy Spirit.

Luke tells us that in Antioch, the disciples were called Christians! Why? Because every time you see a Christian, you’re reminded of Jesus! Wherever a true Christian goes, they radiate the love of the Risen Christ and experience the transformative action of the Holy Spirit guiding them by the Father’s will.

A genuine Christian mirrors Christ (Christ-like). A Christian listens intently to the Master’s voice and follows in His footsteps, secure in their bond with Him. When the Church in Jerusalem discovered the Good News was making waves among the Greeks, they sent Barnabas—a man overflowing with the Holy Spirit and faith! He was a beacon of goodness, renowned for his generous assistance.

Instead of being consumed by self, let’s be overflowing with the Holy Spirit! Through repentance and embracing Jesus as the Truth, we can be filled to the brim with His Spirit. It’s all about Jesus—He changes everything and uses us to create ripples of impact all around us! He is performing incredible works within the Church.

While the Church in Jerusalem faced fierce persecution, Jesus was right there! As they spread the Good News, He was with them every step of the way. Jesus is present wherever two or three gather in His name, nurturing them with the power of the Holy Spirit. He himself tells us today I and the Father are one. When He calls you, saying, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart,” how do you respond? Do you chase after your plans?

Now, take a moment to reflect: Are you a Christian in name only, or in the essence of your character? Do you wear the title of a saint or Christian virtue without your actions matching that identity? Are you truly following in the footsteps of Jesus, the good Shepherd who laid down His life for us, or are you the one being sought by Jesus while choosing to wander lost in the world? When you choose your path, let it be because of Jesus—not anyone else. It’s all centered on God, not on humankind.

It’s about revering God, not placing our faith in or fearing man. It has always been about Him, and it will always be! It’s about walking in the Master’s footsteps!
Ask yourself: Do you uplift and inspire those around you? Are you there to support others in their spiritual journeys? Do you lend a helping hand in tough times? Are you fortifying others in their faith?

We have an incredible advocate with the Father: Jesus Christ, the Righteous One, the good Shepherd who stands in as our intercessor. The Holy Spirit is right there with us, guiding us on our journey back to the Father.

This unveils the mystery of the Blessed Trinity woven into our lives; this is the profound truth! Do you hear the Shepherd’s voice? Are you attuned to His call? Are you tempted by feel-good messages, or do you embrace the call to selfless love and obedience? Do you follow Jesus with unwavering love, or are you just flattering your ego?

Jesus proclaims, “I and the Father are one. My sheep hear my voice, and they follow me.” Let’s raise a joyful shout for the King of Glory in all we do today, and may our Blessed Mother guide us on how to be overflowing with the Holy Spirit!

Fr Joseph Osho