“In today’s reading, we see something very real and very human happening in the early Church.
There was growth—“the number of disciples was increasing.” But along with growth came tension. Complaints arose. Some felt neglected. Some felt overlooked.
Even in the early Church—there were misunderstandings, differences, even murmuring. And that can surprise us.
Sometimes we think: If we are truly a Church, there should be no problems. But the truth is—problems are not a sign that the Church is failing. Sometimes, they are a sign that the Church is alive… and growing.
What is important is not that problems exist, but how we respond to them. The Apostles did not ignore the complaint. They listened. They recognized that something needed to be done, not only spiritually, but concretely. Because faith must also respond to real human needs.
The widows were being neglected. And the Church said: This cannot continue.
But the Apostles also knew their mission. They said: “It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at table.” Not because serving is unimportant, but because every service in the Church has its proper place.
So they shared responsibility. They appointed others—men full of the Spirit and wisdom—to take care of the service. The Church became more collaborative, more participative.
This reading teaches us three simple lessons:
First, a living Church listens. God often speaks through those who feel unheard.
Second, a living Church shares responsibility. The mission belongs to all—no one is too small.
Third, a living Church remains rooted in prayer. Without God, even service becomes empty.
In our parishes, families, and communities, let us be attentive to those who may feel neglected: the poor, the elderly, the sick, even those who quietly serve but are rarely noticed.
Let us not wait for problems to grow. Let us listen early. Let us act together. If you can help—help. If you can serve—serve. If you can encourage—encourage.
And for us who lead in any way—let us not try to do everything alone. A synodal Church is a Church where everyone walks together, serves together, and takes responsibility together.
And what happened in the end? “The word of God continued to spread.” When there is listening, sharing, and prayer, the Church grows. Not only in number, but in spirit.”