Daily Readings - Tue May 12 2020
Acts
19But Jews came from Antioch and Iconium, and having persuaded the crowds, they stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing that he was dead.20But when the disciples gathered about him, he rose up and entered the city, and on the next day he went on with Barnabas to Derbe.21When they had preached the gospel to that city and had made many disciples, they returned to Lystra and to Iconium and to Antioch,22strengthening the souls of the disciples, encouraging them to continue in the faith, and saying that through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of God.23And when they had appointed elders for them in every church, with prayer and fasting they committed them to the Lord in whom they had believed.24Then they passed through Pisidia and came to Pamphylia.25And when they had spoken the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia,26and from there they sailed to Antioch, where they had been commended to the grace of God for the work that they had fulfilled.27And when they arrived and gathered the church together, they declared all that God had done with them, and how he had opened a door of faith to the Gentiles.28And they remained no little time with the disciples.
John
27Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.28You heard me say to you, 'I am going away, and I will come to you.' If you loved me, you would have rejoiced, because I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater than I.29And now I have told you before it takes place, so that when it does take place you may believe.30I will no longer talk much with you, for the ruler of this world is coming. He has no claim on me,31but I do as the Father has commanded me, so that the world may know that I love the Father. Rise, let us go from here.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that guide us through trials and the promise of divine peace. The first reading from Acts 14:19-28 recounts Paul's resilience after being stoned and left for dead. Miraculously, he survives and continues his missionary work, establishing leaders and sharing his experiences with the church upon his return. This passage highlights perseverance and trust in God's plan despite adversity.
The Gospel from John 14:27-31a captures Jesus' farewell words to His disciples. He offers them a peace beyond worldly understanding, urging them not to be troubled or afraid. Jesus explains His departure to the Father and the imminent arrival of the prince of the world, yet He remains steadfast in His Father's commandment. This passage emphasizes trust in God's presence and peace amidst challenges.
Both readings intertwine themes of perseverance and divine assurance. Paul's journey shows us that even in the face of persecution, faith compels us to continue our mission. Jesus' words remind us that His peace is our anchor in turbulent times. Together, they teach us to face life's challenges with courage and trust in God.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace our own trials with faith. Whether facing personal struggles or societal challenges, we are reminded to trust in God's plan and find peace in His presence. The moral lesson is clear: perseverance and trust in God's peace will guide us through any tribulation, allowing us to fulfill our mission with courage and grace.