Homily Fifth Tuesday of Easter (Acts 14-19-28) “To Zealous to Quit”
Homily Fifth Tuesday of Easter (Acts 14-19-28) “To Zealous to Quit”
Paul spent four to ten months on his first missionary journey. We read about it today. It sounds like a travel log. Paul went to all kinds of towns and cities whose names we can hardly pronounce. Most of us have no idea where Paul and Barnabas were traveling. The best way to describe their route is to say that they were traveling around present-day Turkey.
Paul went on three missionary journeys. On his three journeys he kept making bigger and bigger circles always arriving back in Jerusalem. It is estimated that he traveled 10,000 miles. For us that may not seem like too far a distance, but Paul did not travel the way we do.
Paul had to travel mostly by foot. If he was lucky, he might have a horse for a time, but it is not likely. He probably slept in the open fields as he hiked. He might also travel by ship between countries. There were no luxury cabins. He would have slept on deck. If he was lucky, he might have a canvas over him. Otherwise, he would be sleeping under the stars If the seas were rough, there would not be too much rest.
Traveling was a dangerous undertaking. There were robbers in certain locations trying to steal from travelers. Paul always had to be on the watch. He had to fear constantly for his own life and safety.
The good news was that Rome had a great system of roads. The Romans kept up their roads and bridges so they could move military troops from one end of their empire to the other. Paul was able to take advantage of these highways as he walked.
He also had a network of friends in the early Christian community. When he reached a city that was open to his message he could stay in houses and be comfortable. These houses became the churches he preached in and celebrated Eucharist in.
How audacious Paul must have been to think he could convert the whole world to Christianity. He had big dreams and he chased them. He did it all for Jesus.
Reflection Questions:
- How difficult is my Christian life? Should I admire Paul and his zeal?
- Would I have set off to preach the Gospel message? What difficulties would have scared me?
Dear Parishioners,
Tomorrow I will be traveling to Peoria for the annual Catholic Schools Recognition Luncheon. This year Jane Barrett will be receiving the distinguished principal award. It is my honor to introduce her.
Jane has served Seton School for many years. No year has been more challenging than the past year. She has responded to every challenge with wisdom, enthusiasm and grace. We are lucky to have her as our principal.
If you have had children or grandchildren in the school and they have benefited from a Catholic Education, drop Jane a note of appreciation. I am sure she would enjoy hearing from you.
Hopefully, this summer will not be like last summer and she can get some R and R.
May Our Lady and All the Angels and Saints watch over you today.
Fr. Mark