Daily Readings - Mon May 30 2022
Acts
1And it happened that while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul passed through the inland country and came to Ephesus. There he found some disciples.2And he said to them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" And they said, "No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit."3And he said, "Into what then were you baptized?" They said, "Into John's baptism."4And Paul said, "John baptized with the baptism of repentance, telling the people to believe in the one who was to come after him, that is, Jesus."5On hearing this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.6And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying.7There were about twelve men in all.8And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God.
John
29His disciples said, "Ah, now you are speaking plainly and not using figurative speech!30Now we know that you know all things and do not need anyone to question you; this is why we believe that you came from God."31Jesus answered them, "Do you now believe?32Behold, the hour is coming, indeed it has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home, and will leave me alone. Yet I am not alone, for the Father is with me.33I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that illuminate the role of the Holy Spirit and the nature of faith amidst challenges. The first reading from Acts 19:1-8 describes Paul's encounter with disciples in Ephesus who had not yet received the Holy Spirit. These disciples, followers of John the Baptist, were baptized only with John's baptism of repentance. Paul explains that John's baptism was a precursor to belief in Jesus, leading them to be baptized in Jesus' name. Through Paul's laying on of hands, they receive the Holy Spirit, manifesting in speaking in tongues and prophesying. This event highlights the Holy Spirit's empowerment and the progression of faith from preparation to fulfillment.
The Gospel reading from John 16:29-33 shifts focus to Jesus' farewell discourse, where He assures His disciples of peace and victory despite impending challenges. The disciples acknowledge Jesus' divine origin, and He affirms their faith. Jesus forewarns them of scattering and isolation but reassures them of the Father's presence. He encourages them to have confidence, for He has overcome the world. This passage emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in providing peace and the strength to face adversity.
Both readings converge on the Holy Spirit's transformative power. In Acts, the Spirit empowers believers, while in John, the Spirit offers peace and reassurance. This duality reminds us to seek the Spirit's presence in our lives, embracing both empowerment and peace. As we navigate life's challenges, we are called to trust in God's support and recognize the stages of our faith journey, much like the disciples who moved from John's baptism to a deeper commitment to Jesus. Let us remain open to the Spirit's guidance, finding strength in our faith and peace amidst turmoil.