Daily Readings - Sat May 18 2024
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 faithfulness 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 continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Jesus gently redirecting Peter’s focus away from the fate of another disciple and back to his own calling. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on the importance of trusting in God’s will and remaining faithful to our own unique mission.
The context of these readings is significant. Paul, despite being a prisoner, uses his circumstances to witness to the power of Christ, while John’s Gospel emphasizes the personal nature of discipleship. Jesus’ words to Peter remind us that our focus should not be on comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey, but rather on following Him wholeheartedly. Both readings highlight the importance of remaining faithful, even in challenging or uncertain situations.
In our daily lives, these readings call us to trust in God’s plan and to focus on our own path. Like Paul, we may face obstacles or setbacks, but these do not have to hinder our ability to live out our faith. Like Peter, we may be tempted to look at others and wonder about their role in God’s plan, but Jesus reminds us that our primary concern should be to follow Him faithfully. Let us take inspiration from these examples and strive to live each day with trust in God’s will and a commitment to our own unique calling.