Daily Readings - Wed May 10 2017

Acts

Chapter 12

²⁴But the word of God increased and multiplied.

Chapter 13

⁵When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews. And they had John to assist them.

⁴⁴And Jesus cried out and said, "Whoever believes in me, believes not in me but in him who sent me.⁴⁵And whoever sees me sees him who sent me.⁴⁶I have come into the world as light, so that whoever believes in me may not remain in darkness.⁴⁷If anyone hears my words and does not keep them, I do not judge him; for I did not come to judge the world but to save the world.⁴⁸The one who rejects me and does not receive my words has a judge; the word that I have spoken will judge him on the last day.⁴⁹For I have not spoken on my own authority, but the Father who sent me has himself given me a commandment--what to say and what to speak.⁵⁰And I know that his commandment is eternal life. What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me."

Sermon

The readings today invite us to reflect on the power of God's Word and our response to it. In the first reading from Acts, we see the early Christian community thriving as the Word of God spreads rapidly. The missionaries, including John, preach in the synagogues, showing the importance of collaboration in sharing the Gospel. This passage highlights the church's early focus on spreading the message and the teamwork involved in ministry. In the Gospel, Jesus emphasizes that believing in Him is believing in the Father who sent Him. He describes Himself as a light to the world, offering salvation to all who accept Him. However, Jesus also warns that those who reject Him will be judged by His own words. This duality underscores His role as both savior and the source of judgment, stressing the importance of accepting His teachings. These readings remind us to embrace God's Word actively and to share it with others. Like the early missionaries, we are called to spread the Gospel in our own ways. Jesus' words challenge us to live according to His teachings, mindful that our response to His message will shape our eternal destiny. Let us strive to be lights in the world, reflecting God's love and truth, and to accept the responsibility that comes with following Christ.