Daily Readings - Fri May 26 2017
Acts
9And the Lord said to Paul one night in a vision, "Do not be afraid, but go on speaking and do not be silent,10for I am with you, and no one will attack you to harm you, for I have many in this city who are my people."11And he stayed a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.12But when Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him before the tribunal,13saying, "This man is persuading people to worship God contrary to the law."14But when Paul was about to open his mouth, Gallio said to the Jews, "If it were a matter of wrongdoing or vicious crime, O Jews, I would have reason to accept your complaint.15But since it is a matter of questions about words and names and your own law, see to it yourselves. I refuse to be a judge of these things."16And he drove them from the tribunal.17And they all seized Sosthenes, the ruler of the synagogue, and beat him in front of the tribunal. But Gallio paid no attention to any of this.18After this, Paul stayed many days longer and then took leave of the brothers and set sail for Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila. At Cenchreae he had cut his hair, for he was under a vow.
Sermon
In today's reading from Acts 18:9-18, we witness Paul's unwavering commitment to his missionary work in Corinth. Despite facing persecution, Paul receives a vision from God, urging him not to fear and to continue preaching. This divine encouragement strengthens Paul, allowing him to stay in Corinth for over a year, spreading the Word of God. When accusations arise, the proconsul Gallio dismisses the charges, recognizing the matter as a religious dispute rather than a legal issue. This dismissal highlights the complex relationship between the early church and Roman authorities. Paul, after these events, departs Corinth, shaving his head as part of a vow, symbolizing his dedication and obedience to his faith.
The context of Corinth, a bustling and diverse city, sets the stage for Paul's significant missionary efforts. Corinth's strategic location made it a crucial place for spreading Christianity, yet it also presented challenges due to its cultural melting pot. The Jewish community's opposition to Paul reflects the broader struggles faced by early Christians as they navigated a world often hostile to their message. Gallio's indifferent response indicates that while authorities might not actively support the church, they could provide unintended relief by not persecuting its members.
This reading offers valuable lessons for our daily lives. Like Paul, we may encounter challenges and uncertainties, but trusting in God's presence and protection can bolster our courage. The story reminds us that our faith should be steadfast, even in the face of adversity. Furthermore, it shows that secular authorities can sometimes provide unexpected support, allowing the church to grow. As we navigate our own trials, we can draw strength from Paul's example, trusting in God's providence and continuing our mission with faith and perseverance.
In conclusion, the moral lesson from this passage is clear: trust in God's providence and stand firm in your faith. Just as Paul found courage in God's vision, we too can face life's challenges with confidence, knowing we are not alone. Let us embrace our own missionary call, whether in our communities or beyond, with the same dedication and trust that Paul exemplified.