Daily Readings - Sat May 04 2024
Acts
1Then he arrived at Derbe and Lystra. And behold, a certain disciple named Timothy was there, the son of a faithful Jewish woman, his father a Gentile2The brothers who were at Lystra and Iconium rendered good testimony to him3Paul wanted this man to travel with him, and taking him, he circumcised him, because of the Jews who were in those places. For they all knew that his father was a Gentile4And as they were traveling through the cities, they delivered to them the dogmas to be kept, which were decreed by the Apostles and elders who were at Jerusalem5And certainly, the Churches were being strengthened in faith and were increasing in number every day6Then, while crossing through Phrygia and the region of Galatia, they were prevented by the Holy Spirit from speaking the Word in Asia7But when they had arrived in Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not permit them8Then, when they had crossed through Mysia, they descended to Troas9And a vision in the night was revealed to Paul of a certain man of Macedonia, standing and pleading with him, and saying: "Cross into Macedonia and help us!10Then, after he saw the vision, immediately we sought to set out for Macedonia, having been assured that God had called us to evangelize to them
John
18If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before you19If you had been of the world, the world would love what is its own. Yet truly, you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world; because of this, the world hates you20Remember my saying that I told you: The servant is not greater than his Lord. If they have persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they have kept my word, they will keep yours also21But all these things they will do to you because of my name, for they do not know him who sent me
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 16:1-10 describes Paul and Timothy's missionary journey, highlighting their obedience to the Holy Spirit's guidance. Despite being hindered from preaching in Asia, they followed a vision to Macedonia, demonstrating trust in divine direction. The second reading, John 15:18-21, finds Jesus preparing His disciples for the challenges ahead, warning them of the world's hatred but assuring them of their chosen role in God's plan.
Both passages emphasize the themes of mission and divine guidance. Paul's journey shows the early church's reliance on the Spirit, adapting to circumstances to spread the Gospel effectively. Jesus' words remind us that our mission as believers will face opposition, yet we are chosen and empowered to persevere. The connection between the readings lies in their focus on trust and resilience, encouraging us to remain faithful despite obstacles.
Applying this to our lives, we are called to listen to the Spirit's whispers, even when our plans change. Like Paul and Timothy, we must adapt and trust in God's guidance. Jesus' assurance reminds us that any persecution or challenge is part of our mission, not a reason to falter. The moral lesson is clear: trust in God's plan and persevere with faith, knowing we are chosen for a greater purpose.