Daily Readings - Mon May 22 2023
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 guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts describes Paul's encounter with disciples in Ephesus who, though baptized by John, had not yet received the Holy Spirit. Paul baptizes them in the name of Jesus, and through the laying on of hands, they experience the Spirit's descent, evidenced by speaking in tongues and prophesying. This episode underscores the transition from John's baptism of repentance to the fullness of the Holy Spirit through Jesus, highlighting the Spirit's empowering role in the early church.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus preparing His disciples for His departure. He acknowledges their growing faith but warns of impending scattering, reassuring them that He is never alone, as the Father is always with Him. Jesus offers these words to foster peace and confidence, reminding them that despite the world's challenges, He has already overcome them.
These readings connect through themes of the Holy Spirit and trust in God's presence. In Acts, the Spirit empowers believers for mission, while in John, Jesus assures His disciples of peace and victory. Together, they invite us to embrace the Spirit's empowerment and trust in God's providence, even amidst life's trials.
In our daily lives, let us remain open to the Holy Spirit's transformative power, seeking His guidance and strength. May we face challenges with the confidence that God is with us, granting us peace and overcoming the world's difficulties. This assurance calls us to live courageously, trusting in God's presence and promises.