Daily Readings - Sat May 27 2017
Acts
23After spending some time there, he departed and went from one place to the next through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.24Now a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was an eloquent man, competent in the Scriptures.25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he spoke and taught accurately the things concerning Jesus, though he knew only the baptism of John.26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue, but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him and explained to him the way of God more accurately.27And when he wished to cross to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples to welcome him. When he arrived, he greatly helped those who through grace had believed,28for he powerfully refuted the Jews in public, showing by the Scriptures that the Christ was Jesus.
John
23In that day you will ask nothing of me. Truly, truly, I say to you, whatever you ask of the Father in my name, he will give it to you.24Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full.25"I have said these things to you in figures of speech. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figures of speech but will tell you plainly about the Father.26In that day you will ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father on your behalf;27for the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.28I came from the Father and have come into the world, and now I am leaving the world and going to the Father."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Acts 18:23-28 introduces us to Apollos, a man of great eloquence and scriptural knowledge, yet limited in his understanding of the faith. It is through the mentorship of Priscilla and Aquila that Apollos's knowledge deepens, enabling him to minister more effectively. This story underscores the importance of community and mentorship in our spiritual growth, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith.
The Gospel reading from John 16:23b-28 shifts our focus to the intimate relationship we have with God through prayer. Jesus assures us that our prayers, offered in His name, will be heard by the Father. He promises that our joy will be complete as we experience the fruits of our prayers. This passage invites us to embrace prayer as a direct line of communication with God, trusting in His love and provision.
Reflecting on these readings, we are called to a balanced approach in our spiritual lives. Just as Apollos needed guidance, we too benefit from the wisdom of others and the support of our faith community. Simultaneously, we are encouraged to cultivate a personal prayer life, trusting in God's loving response. Let us seek to grow both through the wisdom of others and through direct communion with God, knowing that our spiritual growth is both communal and deeply personal. In this balance, we find the joy and fulfillment that Jesus promises.