Daily Readings - Tue May 28 2019

²²And the people rushed together against them. And the magistrates, tearing their tunics, ordered them to be beaten with staffs²³And when they had inflicted many scourges on them, they cast them into prison, instructing the guard to watch them diligently²⁴And since he had received this kind of order, he cast them into the interior prison cell, and he restricted their feet with stocks²⁵Then, in the middle of the night, Paul and Silas were praying and praising God. And those who were also in custody were listening to them²⁶Yet truly, there was a sudden earthquake, so great that the foundations of the prison were moved. And immediately all the doors were opened, and the bindings of everyone were released²⁷Then the prison guard, having been jarred awake, and seeing the doors of the prison open, drew his sword and intended to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had fled²⁸But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying: "Do no harm to yourself, for we are all here!²⁹Then calling for a light, he entered. And trembling, he fell before the feet of Paul and Silas³⁰And bringing them outside, he said, "Sirs, what must I do, so that I may be saved?³¹So they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and then you will be saved, with your household.³²And they spoke the Word of the Lord to him, along with all those who were in his house³³And he, taking them in the same hour of the night, washed their scourges. And he was baptized, and next his entire household³⁴And when he had brought them into his own house, he set a table for them. And he was joyous, with his entire household, believing in God

John

Chapter 16

⁵But I did not tell you these things from the beginning, because I was with you. And now I am going to him who sent me. And no one among you has asked me, ‘Where are you going?⁶But because I have spoken these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart⁷But I tell you the truth: it is expedient for you that I am going. For if I do not go, the Advocate will not come to you. But when I will have gone away, I will send him to you⁸And when he has arrived, he will argue against the world, about sin and about justice and about judgment⁹about sin, indeed, because they have not believed in me¹⁰about justice, truly, because I am going to the Father, and you will not see me any longer¹¹about judgment, then, because the prince of this world has already been judged

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that illuminate the power of faith and the transformative presence of the Holy Spirit. The first reading from Acts recounts the trials of Paul and Silas, who, despite imprisonment and physical suffering, find strength in their devotion to God. Their hymns of praise during captivity exemplify unwavering faith, leading to a miraculous earthquake that frees them. This event not only liberates them physically but also opens the heart of the jailer, who, in a moment of desperation, seeks salvation. The jailer's conversion, along with his family, underscores the Holy Spirit's active role in bringing light to those in darkness. The Gospel reading from John presents Jesus' discourse on the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role as the Advocate. Jesus explains that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, who will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This passage highlights the Spirit's mission to guide and transform, preparing the disciples for the challenges ahead. The connection between the two readings lies in the Holy Spirit's agency—whether in the courage of Paul and Silas or in the conviction of the jailer, the Spirit's power is evident. Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, especially during trials. The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives can transform any situation, offering courage and guidance. As we navigate our own challenges, let us remain open to the Spirit's prompting, allowing Him to lead us to acts of faith and compassion. The moral lesson here is clear: faith and the Holy Spirit's transformative power can turn any darkness into light, offering hope and renewal. May we, like Paul, Silas, and the jailer, embrace the Spirit's work in our hearts, leading to a life of joy and service.