Daily Readings - Sat Jun 08 2019
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 profound lessons on trust and focus in our walk with God. The First Reading from Acts describes Paul's house arrest in Rome, where despite his confinement, he continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. This highlights Paul's unshakable trust in God's plan and his commitment to his mission, even in the face of adversity. The Gospel from John presents a conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of each disciple following their unique path without comparing themselves to others. This teaches us to focus on our own journey with Jesus, trusting in His plan for us.
The context of these readings is significant. Paul, in Rome, is at the heart of the empire, symbolizing the spread of Christianity into the world's center. His perseverance under house arrest underscores the early Church's resilience. In John's Gospel, the post-resurrection setting reminds us that our roles as disciples are defined by trust and obedience. Both readings encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, whether in challenging circumstances or in understanding our specific calling.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded to focus on our own responsibilities and trust in God's plan. Like Paul, we should remain dedicated to our mission, even when faced with obstacles. Like Peter, we should avoid distractions and comparisons, instead following Jesus faithfully. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan and focus on your own path. Let us embrace our unique roles, trusting that God's timing and purpose are perfect, and live each day with faith and dedication.