Daily Catholic Lectio
Wed, 24 April 2024
Fourth Week of Easter – Wednesday
Acts 12:24-13:5. John 12:44-50
Being set apart
The expression ‘being set apart’ could be understood at two levels: negatively, that which is not wanted, willed, or necessary is ‘set apart.’ For example, the food that is falling from our plate is set apart. Something that is left over on the plate is set apart and thrown into the dust bin. Positively, anything that is honourable is reserved or set apart. Among all the people of Israel, Saul is set apart in order that God may make him the first king of Israel. Aaron is set apart from all the Levites and is made the High Priest. We reserve or set dresses, things, and perfumes apart for special occasions. Anything that is reserved becomes precious.
In today’s first reading, we read about a spiritual event. The early Christians and their servants were always guided by the Holy Spirit. Before beginning any new action, starting a new journey, or initiating a new project, they invoke the Holy Spirit. As they pray one day, the Holy Spirit tells them, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” And the believers, after fasting and prayer, laid their hands on Barnabas and Saul and sent them on mission.
Here we see the presentation of a synodal church. The synodal church is being guided by the Holy Spirit. It always seeks the will, presence, and guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is always ready for mission. It blesses and encourages each other.
The Holy Spirit defines the life path and the purpose of Barnabas and Saul. He reveals them to them.
We too are set apart, but for what? The answer is not always clear. Today, let us pray that the Holy Spirit may reveal to us the purpose, if not at least the direction, of our lives. Let us plead for his accompanying presence.
In the gospel reading, Jesus converses with the Jews. He tells them, “Whoever sees me sees the one who sent me.” He further adds that whoever believes in him will be saved, and whoever does not believe in him will be condemned.
Jesus says that he came into the world as light. In the teachings of Rabbi, the Law (Torah) and the Temple were presented as ‘light.’ Now, Jesus replaces them. In the Matthean Sermon on the Mount, Jesus tells his disciples, “You are the light of the world.”
As Jesus is sent by the Father, he is set apart (exalted). He grants the same status to those who believe in him. He gives life and light.
In the light of Jesus, let us understand the purpose of our lives. Let us continue to seek the guidance of the Spirit. He reveals to us why we are set apart. He guides us towards the purpose.
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“I plead with you – never, ever give up on hope; never doubt, never become discouraged; cling on to hope,” says Pope Saint John Paul II. (Jubilee A. D. 2025, bite 80)
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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