The virtue of docility to the Holy Spirit (HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE TENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR II (ST. BARNABAS - JUNE 11 2024

HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE TENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR II (ST. BARNABAS - JUNE 11, 2024)

Acts.11:21b-26;13:1-3; Ps. 98; Matthew 5:33-37

The virtue of docility to the Holy Spirit 

Dear faithful,

Today, we celebrate the memorial of St. Barnabas, a beacon of early Christianity, whose life and works are recounted in the first reading. His mission in Antioch was pivotal, nurturing the tender roots of faith in a fledgling community. The upbringing of a child shapes their future; similarly, the initial nurturing of faith determines its resilience and depth. St. Barnabas, chosen for this delicate mission, exemplified maturity and mentorship, being "a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and of faith."

As Barnabas labored in Antioch, the community of believers expanded. He did not claim this growth for personal glory but humbly collaborated with Saul, recognizing himself as an instrument of God. This humility is a lesson for us all; in God's work, we must seek not our own glory but the glorification of the Divine.

The partnership of Barnabas and Saul led to remarkable growth in Antioch, culminating in the disciples being called 'Christians' for the first time, reflecting their Christ-like existence. This prompts us to introspect: Are we living and preaching Christ in our daily lives, or have we allowed worldly vices to overshadow our testimony?

When the Holy Spirit called Barnabas and Saul to a new mission, Barnabas did not hesitate, despite the human desire for rest after labor. The Lord's rewards come in His own time and manner. Like St. Barnabas, we should not be disheartened if others benefit more from our efforts. Working for self-gain is not working under the Holy Spirit's impulse but for selfish ends.

In serving God, let us allow Him to reward our deeds. Seeking our own reward can lead us astray from the Divine plan. Trust in Jesus' assurance that God, who sees all, will reward us in His way. Let us emulate St. Barnabas's docility to the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

God bless you all