Daily Catholic Lectio
Fri, 23 May ‘25
Fifth Week of Easter – Friday
Acts 15:22–31; John 15:12–17
Judas and Silas
The central figure of today’s first reading from the Acts of the Apostles is Silas—or Silvanus as he is also known. While his name in Tamil may sound feminine, Silas is indeed a man and a prominent figure in the early Church.
After the Council of Jerusalem resolves the issue concerning circumcision, the leaders of the Church decide to communicate their decision by letter. What stands out is the transparency and integrity of their method of communication—a mark of the early Christian community.
Rather than sending the letter through Paul and Barnabas alone, the Church, in its wisdom, sends Judas and Silas—two trusted representatives of the Jerusalem Church. Why two? Because, according to Jewish tradition, “the testimony of two is valid.” Moreover, if something were to happen to one during the journey, the other could continue the mission.
A messenger must faithfully represent the one who sends him. That is why the Wisdom books speak frequently about the character and reliability of those who are sent.
Silas proves himself to be such a faithful and wise delegate.
A good messenger must be wise, physically fit, emotionally resilient, and uninterested in momentary comforts or rewards. Silas embodies these traits.
Two aspects of the letter they carry deserve reflection:
“Apart from what is essential, no other burden should be placed.”
This points to the core of Christian spirituality. Many religious practices today are cluttered with externalities—rituals and symbols that often obscure the heart of the faith. The early Church had the clarity to distinguish essentials from non-essentials, placing people above prescriptions.
Judas and Silas also explained everything orally.
Not only did they deliver the letter, but they interpreted it in a way the local believers could understand. To be able to explain truth with clarity and conviction is a great gift—one that these men possessed.
What was the immediate fruit of their communication?
“The community was encouraged and rejoiced.”
This is the mark of Christian speech—to build up and bring joy. In today’s anxious world, where fear, confusion, and existential instability threaten us, we desperately need words that inspire encouragement and peace.
Silas offers us three lessons worth imitating: his fidelity to his mission, his intelligence in communication, and his ability to uplift others with joy.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
Leave a comment