Daily Readings - Fri May 06 2022
2 Timothy
1I testify before God, and before Jesus Christ, who shall judge the living and the dead through his return and his kingdom2that you should preach the word urgently, in season and out of season: reprove, entreat, rebuke, with all patience and doctrine3For there shall be a time when they will not endure sound doctrine, but instead, according to their own desires, they will gather to themselves teachers, with itching ears4and certainly, they will turn their hearing away from the truth, and they will be turned toward fables5But as for you, truly, be vigilant, laboring in all things. Do the work of an Evangelist, fulfilling your ministry. Show self-restraint
John
11I am the good Shepherd. The good Shepherd gives his life for his sheep12But the hired hand, and whoever is not a shepherd, to whom the sheep do not belong, he sees the wolf approaching, and he departs from the sheep and flees. And the wolf ravages and scatters the sheep13And the hired hand flees, because he is a hired hand and there is no concern for the sheep within him14I am the good Shepherd, and I know my own, and my own know me15just as the Father knows me, and I know the Father. And I lay down my life for my sheep16And I have other sheep that are not of this fold, and I must lead them. They shall hear my voice, and there shall be one sheepfold and one shepherd
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound call to faithfulness and selfless love. The first reading from 2 Timothy urges us to remain steadfast in our mission, even when the world grows indifferent or hostile to the truth. Paul, nearing the end of his life, implores Timothy to fulfill his ministry with urgency and integrity, warning that a time will come when people will turn away from sound doctrine in favor of comforting lies. This passage calls us to perseverance and fidelity, no matter the challenges we face.
The Gospel from John offers a complementary message through the image of the Good Shepherd. Jesus contrasts Himself with the hired hand who flees in times of danger, emphasizing His unwavering commitment to His sheep. He lays down His life for them, knowing them deeply and being known by them in return. This passage invites us to reflect on the nature of true leadership and love, which are rooted in sacrifice and genuine care. Just as the Good Shepherd knows His sheep, we are called to know and follow His voice in our lives.
Together, these readings challenge us to live with purpose and integrity. In a world that often prioritizes comfort and convenience, we are called to remain faithful to the truth, even when it is difficult. Like the Good Shepherd, we are to care for one another with selfless love, putting the needs of others before our own. As we navigate the complexities of daily life, may we strive to embody this kind of fidelity and compassion, trusting in God’s grace to guide and sustain us.