Daily Readings - Sat May 27 2023
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 examples of faith and trust in God’s plan. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s ministry while under house arrest in Rome. Despite his confinement, Paul continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication, welcoming all who come to him and teaching about the kingdom of God. His situation could have been one of despair, but instead, it becomes an opportunity to spread the Good News. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Peter’s curiosity about the future of another disciple, but Jesus redirects Peter’s focus, saying, “What about him? You follow me.” This exchange emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s unique plan for each individual.
These readings remind us that our lives are not defined by our circumstances but by our response to God’s call. Paul, though a prisoner, remained faithful and fruitful in his mission. Peter, faced with uncertainty, learns to focus on his own relationship with Jesus rather than comparing himself to others. Both stories highlight the importance of surrendering to God’s will and trusting in His timing, even when the path ahead is unclear.
As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: Are we allowing God to use us wherever we are, even in challenging situations? Do we trust in His plan for our lives, or do we get distracted by comparing ourselves to others? May we, like Paul, remain faithful and fruitful in our own mission, and may we, like Peter, focus on following Jesus with all our hearts. Let us surrender to God’s will, knowing that He has a unique purpose for each of us.