Daily Readings - Tue May 28 2019

Acts

22The crowd joined in attacking them, and the magistrates tore the garments off them and gave orders to beat them with rods.23And when they had inflicted many blows upon them, they threw them into prison, ordering the jailer to keep them safely.24Having received this order, he put them into the inner prison and fastened their feet in the stocks.25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them,26and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken. And immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone's bonds were unfastened.27When the jailer woke and saw that the prison doors were open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped.28But Paul cried with a loud voice, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here."29And the jailer called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas.30Then he brought them out and said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"31And they said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household."32And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his house.33And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and he was baptized at once, he and all his family.34Then he brought them up into his house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that he had believed in God.

John

5But now I am going to him who sent me, and none of you asks me, 'Where are you going?'6But because I have said these things to you, sorrow has filled your heart.7Nevertheless, I tell you the truth: it is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you.8And when he comes, he will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment:9concerning sin, because they do not believe in me;10concerning righteousness, because I go to the Father, and you will see me no longer;11concerning judgment, because the ruler of this world is judged.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that illuminate the power of faith and the transformative presence of the Holy Spirit. The first reading from Acts recounts the trials of Paul and Silas, who, despite imprisonment and physical suffering, find strength in their devotion to God. Their hymns of praise during captivity exemplify unwavering faith, leading to a miraculous earthquake that frees them. This event not only liberates them physically but also opens the heart of the jailer, who, in a moment of desperation, seeks salvation. The jailer's conversion, along with his family, underscores the Holy Spirit's active role in bringing light to those in darkness. The Gospel reading from John presents Jesus' discourse on the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role as the Advocate. Jesus explains that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, who will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This passage highlights the Spirit's mission to guide and transform, preparing the disciples for the challenges ahead. The connection between the two readings lies in the Holy Spirit's agency—whether in the courage of Paul and Silas or in the conviction of the jailer, the Spirit's power is evident. Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, especially during trials. The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives can transform any situation, offering courage and guidance. As we navigate our own challenges, let us remain open to the Spirit's prompting, allowing Him to lead us to acts of faith and compassion. The moral lesson here is clear: faith and the Holy Spirit's transformative power can turn any darkness into light, offering hope and renewal. May we, like Paul, Silas, and the jailer, embrace the Spirit's work in our hearts, leading to a life of joy and service.