The community of believers was of one heart and mind,
and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own,
but they had everything in common.
With great power the Apostles bore witness
to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus,
and great favor was accorded them all.
There was no needy person among them,
for those who owned property or houses would sell them,
bring the proceeds of the sale,
and put them at the feet of the Apostles,
and they were distributed to each according to need.

Thus Joseph, also named by the Apostles Barnabas
(which is translated “son of encouragement”),
a Levite, a Cypriot by birth,
sold a piece of property that he owned,
then brought the money and put it at the feet of the Apostles.

Acts 4: 32-37

Here are the complete readings for Tuesday, April 29, 2025.

(“Acts of the Apostles” tapestry-Beauvais Cathedral Beauvais, France)

Thomas called Barnabas is featured in today’s reading from the Acts of the Apostles. He was called the “son of encouragement” for his support of the newly formed community of believers, known then simply as “The Way” for their commitment to Jesus’ calls to discipleship. The setting was idyllic with everyone sharing their worldly possessions with one another. While the human condition quickly set in, resulting in factions and selfish claims to authority and possessions, the precedent had been set. The first Christians, however imperfectly, were committed to what is now known as the common good. Societies that strive for the common good prioritize conditions by which every member’s innate human dignity is respected. To do this in any society, whether it is a neighborhood, house of worship, or nation, requires humility and demands sacrifice. Can we today carve out some common good in our often atomized culture and sub-cultures? The answer is a resounding yes, especially in this Easter season. We have reason to hope now just as much as Barnabas and his band of sisters and brothers did, for it is grounded in the trust in the active, encouraging, and providential direction from the Holy Spirit. We may not know where the Spirit is taking us, but we believe that we are being changed for good.

 

Above all,
enter into an ever deeper sharing
of faith and prayer with your sisters and brothers;
reflect with them on how you find God
in your lived experience.
In this way
the community searches out
the needs of the times
and the desires of God
in their regard. – The Fundamental Principles of the Xaverian Brothers

God, help us to be bold in my sharing of your Good News. Thank you for the daily graces that remind me of your presence. Inspired by your blessings, give us the insight and the courage to seek out your people who have been forgotten and encourage them that they are loved and valued simply for who they are, your creation in whom you are well pleased.

Amen

(“Saint Catherine of Siena” modern icon by Gracie Morbitzer)