Daily Catholic Mass Readings for May 18, 2022
First Reading: Acts 15.1-6
1But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."2And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question.3So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.4When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.5But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, "It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses."6The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.
Psalm 122
1I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD!"2Our feet have been standing within your gates, O Jerusalem!3Jerusalem--built as a city that is bound firmly together,4to which the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, as was decreed for Israel, to give thanks to the name of the LORD.5There thrones for judgment were set, the thrones of the house of David.6Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! "May they be secure who love you!7Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!"8For my brothers and companions' sake I will say, "Peace be within you!"9For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your good.
Gospel: John 15.1-8
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.2Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.3Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.6If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 15 highlights a pivotal moment in the early Christian Church where leaders gathered to resolve a contentious issue: whether Gentile converts needed to be circumcised to be saved. This meeting, known as the Council of Jerusalem, was crucial as it shaped the inclusive nature of Christianity, emphasizing faith over ritual. The second reading, from John 15, presents Jesus as the true vine, illustrating the essential relationship between Him and His followers. Jesus emphasizes that just as branches rely on the vine for nourishment, we must abide in Him to bear spiritual fruit.
These readings are intricately connected through themes of unity and spiritual nourishment. Acts 15 shows the early church navigating differences to maintain unity, ultimately deciding that circumcision was not required for salvation. This decision underscored the importance of grace and inclusion. Similarly, John 15 teaches that our spiritual life flows from our connection to Christ, the vine. Together, these passages remind us that our faith community thrives when we stay connected to Christ and embrace diversity in love.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded of the importance of community and connection. Just as the early church found unity through their faith, we can navigate our own disagreements by staying rooted in Christ. Practically, this means actively participating in our faith communities, engaging in prayer, and serving others. The moral lesson is clear: our spiritual vitality depends on abiding in Christ. Without Him, we cannot produce the fruits of love, joy, and peace. Let us strive to remain in His love and teachings, just as branches rely on the vine, so we may bear much fruit and glorify God.