Daily Readings - Fri May 21 2021
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 trust, faithfulness, and divine providence. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul's continued imprisonment under Governor Festus, who seeks to understand the charges against him. Festus, unsure of how to proceed, involves King Agrippa, highlighting the complexities of human judgment and the search for truth. This narrative reminds us that even in uncertainty, our faith must remain steadfast, trusting in God's plan.
The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Jesus thrice asks Peter if he loves Him, each time charging him to "feed my sheep." This exchange is not just a test of Peter's devotion but a recommissioning, restoring him to a position of leadership after his earlier denial. It underscores the importance of trust and the call to serve others with love and humility.
These readings intertwine themes of trust and responsibility. Paul's situation illustrates trusting God amidst uncertainty, while Peter's dialogue with Jesus emphasizes the call to faithful service. In our lives, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances are unclear, and to embrace our roles in caring for one another. Let us strive to be faithful stewards, trusting in God's plan and lovingly serving those around us.