In today's gospel reading, we hear Jesus instructing his disciples, whom he missions to proclaim the kingdom of heaven. They are to cure the sick, raise the dead and cast out devils. He instructs them to travel light and to rely on the hospitality of those who receive them.

In the first reading, we have a depiction of an exemplary disciple in the early church. This is Barnabas, a good man. Barnabas comes across as a reliable, obedient and influential man, who collaborates with the Spirit in converting the nations and proclaiming the Lord Jesus by words and deeds. The church in Jerusalem sends him to mission in Antioch. We are told that he sees the working of the Spirit in Antioch. His labour consolidates the faith of the Antioch community and his preaching contributes to the increase of the community. The critical mass of prophets and teachers in Antioch includes Barnabas and Saul of Tarsus, latterly known as Paul, whom Barnabas takes under his wing.