Daily Readings - Sat May 19 2018
Acts
16And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him.17After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, "Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.18When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case.19But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar--though I had no charge to bring against my nation.20For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain."30He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him,31proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.
John
20Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them, the one who had been reclining at table close to him and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?"21When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?"22Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!"23So the saying spread abroad among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?"24This is the disciple who is bearing witness about these things, and who has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true.25Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful testimonies of faith and perseverance. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s time in Rome, where, despite being under house arrest, he continued to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. Paul explains to the Jewish leaders that he has done nothing wrong and that his imprisonment is the result of false accusations. Yet, even in chains, he remains steadfast in his mission, teaching about the kingdom of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. His example shows us that even in the most challenging circumstances, our faith can shine through.
The Gospel from John 21 shifts our focus to a conversation between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Peter notices John following Jesus and asks, “What about him?” Jesus responds by telling Peter not to be concerned with John’s path but to focus on his own: “You follow me.” This exchange reminds us that each of us has a unique role in God’s plan. It is easy to get distracted by comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey, but Jesus calls us to trust in His plan and to focus on our own relationship with Him.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own lives. Like Paul, we may face obstacles or challenges, but we are called to remain faithful and to share the Good News with others, no matter the circumstances. Like Peter, we may be tempted to look at others and wonder about their path, but Jesus reminds us to focus on our own call to follow Him. Let us trust in God’s plan for us and remain committed to living out our faith with perseverance and joy.