Monday of the Fourth Week of Easter
(Acts 11:1-18; John 10:1-10)
Today’s readings speak of missionary activities. They build one upon the other. The first poses the question of gentiles having
to conform to Jewish customs to be admitted into the Church community. Then the gospel poses Jesus as sheepgate. It begs the question of having to go through
him in Baptism to find eternal life.
Early on the apostles decided that one need not adopt Jewish
customs for Church membership. The issue
of having to be baptized or, more precisely, of what does Baptism consist has
been debated for centuries. Vatican II
declared that people ignorant of the Gospel but who seek the truth and do the
will of God can be saved. This conclusion makes sense, but justifying the
position in Scripture has not been satisfactorily accomplished.
We take to heart the problem when we live our faith intensely. People will notice and may make inquiries
about becoming Catholics. We also should
not be afraid to proclaim our love for the Lord. Others need to be assured that he is present to
us and that his love can make a difference in their lives.