Daily Readings - Sat May 12 2018
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 distinct yet interconnected narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts introduces us to Apollos, a passionate preacher who, despite his eloquence and knowledge, needed further instruction in the teachings of Jesus. Priscilla and Aquila's role in enhancing his understanding underscores the importance of continuous learning and the value of community in our spiritual growth. The Gospel from John features Jesus discussing the power of prayer in His name, promising joy and the Father's love, emphasizing trust and the depth of our relationship with God.
The context of these readings reveals the early church's dynamic nature, where spreading the Gospel required collaboration and openness to further enlightenment. In John, Jesus prepares His disciples for His departure, highlighting the enduring power of prayer and divine love. Both passages encourage us to embrace humility and the pursuit of deeper faith, recognizing that our journey with God is ongoing and supported by community.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are reminded to remain humble and open to learning, just as Apollos did. We should cherish the wisdom that comes from others and engage in meaningful conversations about our faith. Additionally, we are encouraged to pray with confidence, trusting in God's loving response. The moral lesson here is clear: our faith is strengthened through community, continuous learning, and trust in prayer, all of which foster joy and deepen our experience of God's love.