Daily Readings - Fri May 29 2020
Acts
27When two years had elapsed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus. And desiring to do the Jews a favor, Felix left Paul in prison.
13Now when some days had passed, Agrippa the king and Bernice arrived at Caesarea and greeted Festus.14And as they stayed there many days, Festus laid Paul's case before the king, saying, "There is a man left prisoner by Felix,15and when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews laid out their case against him, asking for a sentence of condemnation against him.16I answered them that it was not the custom of the Romans to give up anyone before the accused met the accusers face to face and had opportunity to make his defense concerning the charge laid against him.17So when they came together here, I made no delay, but on the next day took my seat on the tribunal and ordered the man to be brought.18When the accusers stood up, they brought no charge in his case of such evils as I supposed.19Rather they had certain points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a certain Jesus, who was dead, but whom Paul asserted to be alive.20Being at a loss how to investigate these questions, I asked whether he wanted to go to Jerusalem and be tried there regarding them.21But when Paul had appealed to be kept in custody for the decision of the emperor, I ordered him to be held until I could send him to Caesar."
John
15When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love me more than these?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Feed my lambs."16He said to him a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" He said to him, "Yes, Lord; you know that I love you." He said to him, "Tend my sheep."17He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love me?" Peter was grieved because he said to him the third time, "Do you love me?" and he said to him, "Lord, you know everything; you know that I love you." Jesus said to him, "Feed my sheep.18Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were young, you used to dress yourself and walk wherever you wanted, but when you are old, you will stretch out your hands, and another will dress you and carry you where you do not want to go."19(This he said to show by what kind of death he was to glorify God.) And after saying this he said to him, "Follow me."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, leadership, and the enduring call to follow Christ. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s imprisonment and his appeal to Caesar, highlighting his unwavering faith amidst uncertainty. The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Peter’s love is tested, and he is entrusted with the care of Christ’s flock.
These passages, though distinct, share a common theme of trust and service. Paul’s situation illustrates the challenges of standing firm in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. His determination to appeal to Caesar, despite the risks, shows his commitment to spreading the Gospel. Similarly, Peter’s interaction with Jesus underscores the depth of love and responsibility that comes with following Christ. Jesus’ threefold question to Peter, despite his earlier denial, is a moment of grace and reinstatement, charging Peter with the care of His sheep.
In our daily lives, these readings remind us to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with adversity. Like Paul, we may encounter trials that test our faith, but through perseverance, we can emerge stronger. Like Peter, we are called to love deeply and serve others, recognizing that our love for God is expressed through our actions. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities of each day with faith, trusting that God’s plan will unfold, and that our service to others is a testament to our love for Him.