As we approach the conclusion of the Easter season, the daily scriptures during this time shift our focus from the initial awe of the Resurrection to the practical realities of building a living Church Community. Today’s First Reading from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 18:23-28) offers us a beautiful blueprint for how early believers leaned on one another. Through the stories of Paul, Apollos, Priscilla, and Aquila, we are invited to reflect deeply on two essential pillars that sustain our faith communities: radical acceptance and intentional encouragement.
The Grace of Acceptance
True Christian community begins the moment we decide to mirror Christ’s open arms. In the Acts of the Apostles, we meet Apollos—an eloquent speaker and an authority on the Scriptures. He possessed an ardent spirit, yet his understanding of the faith was incomplete, as he only knew the baptism of John. When Priscilla and Aquila hear Apollos preach, they notice his theological gaps. They do not cancel him, judge him, or publicly correct him to humiliate him. Instead, they take him aside privately. They accept his zeal, protect his dignity, and gently explain the Way of God more accurately. Priscilla and Aquila did not judge Apollos for what he lacked. They recognized his passion and value, looking past superficial gaps in his theological training to embrace him as a brother.
Correction in the Church must always serve to build up, never to tear down. Another thing that stands out is Apollos’ humility in accepting correction. Despite his brilliance, he humbly accepts correction of his shortcomings, which helps him improve himself and his preaching. Are you willing to accept fraternal corrections? Or do you always feel bad when a brother/sister corrects you in love?
The Grace of Encouragement
Our parish communities must be a safe space where doubts can be shared, wounds can be healed, and masks can be dropped without fear of judgment. If acceptance opens the door to our community, encouragement is what keeps the flame of faith alive inside. Once Apollos receives this guidance, the community does not hold him back. The Bible says the brothers encouraged him. They write letters to other communities to welcome him. Because he is accepted and encouraged, he becomes a powerful instrument for the Gospel, vigorously helping those who have come to believe. The early Christians used their words to build bridges. A simple word of appreciation or a letter of recommendation empowered Apollos to step boldly into his ministry. We grow stronger when we intentionally celebrate the small victories, ministries, and spiritual gifts of those around us, recognizing that when one member is lifted up, the entire Body of Christ benefits.
As we journey through these final days of Easter, let us ask ourselves:
· Do we pull people closer when they lack understanding, or do we push them away?
· Are we known for our criticism, or for our encouragement?
Let us pray today for the grace to be like Priscilla and Aquila—welcoming the gifts of others and encouraging them to shine for the glory of the Risen Christ.
This reflection spoke volumes of acceptance of all people of God. Do we push people away or closer to God with our differences is a great question. We can learn something from anyone regardless of where they are on this life’s journey walking with Christ. Just like the song beautifully states, and they will know we are christians by our love.
Thank you, Rita. God bless you, and I wish you an abundance of divine grace.