Acceptance

First Reading: Acts 11:1-18
Psalm: Ps 42:2-3; 43:3-4 -- Athirst is my soul for the living God.
Gospel: Jn 10:1-10

“If then God gave them the same gift he gave to us when we came to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to be able to hinder God?”
When they heard this, they stopped objecting and glorified God, saying, “God has then granted life-giving repentance to the Gentiles too.” - Acts 11:17-18

Have you ever been in a situation where not everyone wanted you to be there? Perhaps at a party, overhearing someone whisper, "How did they get in?" Or maybe working at a job, "I can't believe that they hired him." Perhaps we've even said something like this ourselves. What spurs these comments? Is it not that they (or we) feel a touch of pride at being invited ourselves, and having others there lessens it?

Today's readings are a beautiful continuation from Sunday's readings, with Paul preaching to the Gentiles, who rejoice, while the Jews throw him out because of jealousy. It is a great reminder that we are called to be Christians by God and led by Jesus, the Good Shepherd. We have no reason to be prideful, because it is not we who are leading. We have no cause to boast about being called to follow; all have received the invitation. We must be careful not to squabble about whether someone is worthy to attend. If we do, we may find that the host of the banquet hears our complaint and He will say to us, "My friend, did you not know? I invited them myself, to be my honored guest."

For through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. - Galatians 3:26-28

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the great gift of this day. We celebrate the generosity through which we have been called to follow Jesus. Lord, guard our hearts, that we might not become prideful of our calling. Rather, grant that we become more like You, ready to accept all who call on Your name. Fill us with the desire that all will come to Your sacred heart and join in the eternal banquet of everlasting life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.