Daily Readings - Wed May 02 2018
Acts
1But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."2And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question.3So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.4When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.5But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, "It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses."6The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.
John
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.2Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.3Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.6If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound reflections on unity and connection. The first reading from Acts 15.1-6 recounts the Jerusalem Council, where the early Christian community grappled with whether Gentile converts needed to adhere to Jewish law, particularly circumcision. This pivotal moment highlights the church's commitment to unity and inclusion, as they sought to embrace all believers regardless of background. The decision reached emphasized faith in Christ over adherence to specific rituals, setting a precedent for a unified and inclusive church.
The Gospel from John 15.1-8 shifts focus to Jesus' metaphor of the vine and branches. Here, Jesus underscores the essential connection between Himself and His followers. Just as branches derive life and productivity from the vine, believers must remain connected to Christ to bear spiritual fruit. This imagery reminds us that our strength and ability to live a fruitful Christian life come from our relationship with Him.
These readings together remind us of the dual importance of unity within the church and our personal connection to Christ. Just as the early church navigated differences to maintain unity, we too must strive to stay connected to Christ and to one another. In our daily lives, this means actively seeking ways to remain in prayer, participate in community, and live out Christ's teachings. By doing so, we not only bear fruit as individuals but also contribute to the larger body of Christ, fostering a community that is both united and fruitful. The moral lesson here is clear: our connection to Christ and our commitment to unity are vital for living a meaningful and impactful Christian life.