First Reading - Acts 11:21-26,13:1-3
Gospel - Matthew 5:20-26
A man once proudly told his friend, “I have never stolen, never cheated, and never broken any major law.” His friend replied, “That is good. But have you forgiven the person who hurt you?” The man became silent. It is possible to appear righteous on the outside while carrying anger, bitterness, and resentment within. God is concerned not only with our actions but also with the condition of our hearts.
Today’s readings invite us to move beyond external religion and embrace an interior righteousness that transforms our relationships with God and with one another.
In the first reading, we hear about the flourishing Church in Antioch. Through the preaching of ordinary believers, many people came to faith, and “the hand of the Lord was with them.” When Barnabas arrived and saw the grace of God at work, he rejoiced and encouraged the community to remain faithful.
Recognizing the needs of this growing Church, Barnabas brought Paul the Apostle from Tarsus, and together they taught the believers for an entire year. It was in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.
Later, while the community was praying and fasting, the Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Paul for a special mission. The Church responded through prayer, fasting, and the laying on of hands, sending them out to proclaim the Gospel.
The Church at Antioch was fruitful because it was united, faithful, and open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
In the Gospel, Jesus presents a challenging teaching. He tells His disciples that their righteousness must exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees.
Jesus then takes the commandment “You shall not kill” and deepens its meaning. He teaches that anger, insults, hatred, and broken relationships can wound others and separate us from God. True righteousness is not simply avoiding murder; it is fostering reconciliation and love.
So important is reconciliation that Jesus says if someone comes to offer a gift at the altar and remembers that a brother or sister has something against them, they should first seek reconciliation and then return to worship.
Jesus teaches that authentic worship cannot be separated from authentic relationships.
Dear friends, today's readings invite us to reflect on three important virtues: community, reconciliation, and holiness.
First, community. The Church at Antioch grew because believers supported one another, prayed together, and worked together for the Gospel. Christianity is not a solitary journey; we are called to grow in faith as members of God's family.
Second, reconciliation. Jesus reminds us that unresolved anger and division damage our relationship with God and others. Forgiveness and reconciliation are not optional parts of Christian life; they are essential.
Third, holiness of heart. God desires more than external observance. He wants hearts purified from resentment, jealousy, hatred, and pride. True holiness begins within and then shapes our actions.
The question for us today is: am I helping to build unity within my family, community, and Church? Is there someone I need to forgive or seek reconciliation with? And is my faith transforming not only my actions but also my heart?
May the Holy Spirit, who guided the Church at Antioch, guide us as well. May He help us to become instruments of reconciliation and peace. And may our worship be pleasing to God because it flows from hearts filled with love, forgiveness, and genuine holiness. Amen.
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