Daily Readings - Sat Jun 04 2022
Acts
16And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier that guarded him.17After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, "Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.18When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case.19But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar--though I had no charge to bring against my nation.20For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain."30He lived there two whole years at his own expense, and welcomed all who came to him,31proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.
John
20Peter turned and saw the disciple whom Jesus loved following them, the one who had been reclining at table close to him and had said, "Lord, who is it that is going to betray you?"21When Peter saw him, he said to Jesus, "Lord, what about this man?"22Jesus said to him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you? You follow me!"23So the saying spread abroad among the brothers that this disciple was not to die; yet Jesus did not say to him that he was not to die, but, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?"24This is the disciple who is bearing witness about these things, and who has written these things, and we know that his testimony is true.25Now there are also many other things that Jesus did. Were every one of them to be written, I suppose that the world itself could not contain the books that would be written.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful lessons of faith and trust in God’s plan. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s time under house arrest in Rome, where despite his confinement, he continued to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Peter’s curiosity about the fate of another disciple, to which Jesus responds by reminding Peter to focus on his own calling rather than comparing himself to others. Both passages invite us to reflect on perseverance, trust, and living out our unique mission in life.
The context of these readings is rooted in the early Christian community’s struggles and uncertainties. Paul, though imprisoned, remained a tireless witness to the truth, using even his captivity as an opportunity to share the Good News. Similarly, in John’s Gospel, the disciples were grappling with their roles in the aftermath of Jesus’ resurrection. Jesus’ response to Peter emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s plan and not being distracted by the journey of others. These scenes remind us that our faith is not about comparing ourselves to others but about faithfully following God’s will for our own lives.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace perseverance and trust. Like Paul, we may face challenges or limitations, but we are always called to remain faithful and to use every situation as an opportunity to share God’s love. Like Peter, we may be tempted to look at others and wonder about their path, but Jesus reminds us to focus on our own journey. Let us ask ourselves: Am I staying true to my calling? Am I trusting in God’s plan, even when the road ahead is uncertain? May we, like Paul and the disciples, find the strength to follow Jesus without hesitation, knowing that our unique mission is part of a larger story that only God can see.