The spread of the Word of God continues and gains followers. At Antioch, the life and mission of the community is coordinated with roles and structures. It is clear that the Word of God and the Holy Spirit become the guiding force in their mission. This is demonstrated in the sending of Barnabas and Saul after much worship to God and fasting. The gesture of laying hands over them became a norm. They went as far as Cyprus.

Now, Jesus, in His public exhortation to the people, urges them to open their hearts, their minds, their ears, to examine as to where they stand in response to His testaments. Are they keen to be His followers and believe? Or would they remain in the dark? Those who hear His word would already be judged, simply by their rejection or acceptance.

Jesus is not acting alone. He indicates the necessary communal dimension in relationships. Would they accept the Father Who sent Him?

Here and now, we are addressed by the same Lord and His words. Jesus the Light of the world has shown the dark side of our world, our fear of being in the light speaks a lot of our attachments to a transient utilitarian relationship. Jesus offers us a relationship with the Father, a life that is eternal. Is it difficult to accept?