Daily Readings - Sat May 12 2018
Acts
23And having spent some length of time there, he set out, and he walked in order through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples24Now a certain Jew named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man who was powerful with the Scriptures, arrived at Ephesus25He was learned in the Way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching the things that are of Jesus, but knowing only the baptism of John26And so, he began to act faithfully in the synagogue. And when Priscilla and Aquila had heard him, they took him aside and expounded the Way of the Lord to him more thoroughly27Then, since he wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers wrote an exhortation to the disciples, so that they might accept him. And when he had arrived, he held many discussions with those who had believed28For he was vehemently and publicly reproving the Jews, by revealing through the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ
John
23And, in that day, you will not petition me for anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in my name, he will give it to you24Until now, you have not requested anything in my name. Ask, and you shall receive, so that your joy may be full25I have spoken these things to you in proverbs. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in proverbs; instead, I will announce to you plainly from the Father26In that day, you shall ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father for you27For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me, and because you have believed that I went forth from God28I went forth from the Father, and I have come into the world. Next I am leaving the world, and I am going to the Father.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts introduces us to Apollos, a passionate preacher who, despite his eloquence and knowledge, needed further instruction in the teachings of Jesus. Priscilla and Aquila's role in enhancing his understanding underscores the importance of continuous learning and the value of community in our spiritual growth. The Gospel from John features Jesus discussing the power of prayer in His name, promising joy and the Father's love, emphasizing trust and the depth of our relationship with God.
The context of these readings reveals the early church's dynamic nature, where spreading the Gospel required collaboration and openness to further enlightenment. In John, Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure, highlighting the enduring power of prayer and divine love. Both passages encourage us to embrace humility and the pursuit of deeper faith, recognizing that our journey with God is ongoing and supported by community.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are reminded to remain humble and open to learning, just as Apollos did. We should cherish the wisdom that comes from others and engage in meaningful conversations about our faith. Additionally, we are encouraged to pray with confidence, trusting in God's loving response. The moral lesson here is clear: our faith is strengthened through community, continuous learning, and trust in prayer, all of which foster joy and deepen our experience of God's love.