Daily Readings - Sat May 16 2020
Acts
1Paul came also to Derbe and to Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek.2He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium.3Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him, and he took him and circumcised him because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek.4As they went on their way through the cities, they delivered to them for observance the decisions that had been reached by the apostles and elders who were in Jerusalem.5So the churches were strengthened in the faith, and they increased in numbers daily.6And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia.7And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them.8So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas.9And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, "Come over to Macedonia and help us."10And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.
John
18"If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you.19If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you.20Remember the word that I said to you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours.21But all these things they will do to you on account of my name, because they do not know him who sent me.
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through two pivotal moments in the early Christian church and the life of Jesus, each offering profound insights into faith and discipleship. The first reading from Acts 16:1-10 introduces us to Timothy, a young disciple with a mixed heritage, whom Paul circumcises to facilitate their missionary work among the Jews. This act, though seemingly contradictory to earlier teachings, underscores Paul's strategic obedience to God's plan for spreading the Gospel. The narrative continues with the missionaries being guided by the Holy Spirit, highlighting their trust in divine direction as they navigate the challenges of their journey.
The Gospel reading from John 15:18-21 shifts our focus to Jesus' Farewell Discourse, where He warns His disciples of the world's hatred. Jesus explains that this hatred stems from their status as outsiders, chosen by God from the world. He reminds them that persecution is inevitable, just as He experienced, but assures them that their fidelity to His word will sustain them. This passage invites us to reflect on our own identity as followers of Christ, set apart and called to live according to His teachings.
Both readings intertwine themes of trust and fidelity. In Acts, Paul and Timothy's journey exemplifies trust in God's plan, even when it requires difficult decisions. In John, Jesus calls us to remain faithful despite the world's hostility. For us today, these readings encourage us to trust in God's guidance and to embrace our identity as His disciples, even when facing challenges. Let us strive to live with fidelity, trusting that God's plan will unfold, and enduring any persecution with courage and faith.