Daily Readings - Wed May 21 2025
Acts
1But some men came down from Judea and were teaching the brothers, "Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved."2And after Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and debate with them, Paul and Barnabas and some of the others were appointed to go up to Jerusalem to the apostles and the elders about this question.3So, being sent on their way by the church, they passed through both Phoenicia and Samaria, describing in detail the conversion of the Gentiles, and brought great joy to all the brothers.4When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and the elders, and they declared all that God had done with them.5But some believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees rose up and said, "It is necessary to circumcise them and to order them to keep the law of Moses."6The apostles and the elders were gathered together to consider this matter.
John
1"I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.2Every branch of mine that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit.3Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you.4Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.5I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.6If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.7If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.8By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Acts 15:1-6 presents a pivotal moment in the early Christian church, where a dispute arises over the necessity of circumcision for Gentile converts. This conflict reflects the broader challenge of inclusion and unity as the church navigates its identity. The decision to seek guidance in Jerusalem underscores the importance of communal discernment and the pursuit of unity amidst diversity.
The Gospel reading from John 15:1-8 shifts our focus to the intimate relationship between Jesus and His followers. Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and branches to emphasize the essential connection we must maintain with Him. Just as branches draw sustenance from the vine, our spiritual vitality depends on abiding in Christ. This connection is not merely for survival but for abundant fruitfulness, as Jesus promises that our prayers will be answered and we will glorify the Father through our fruitful lives.
These readings together highlight the interplay between communal unity and personal spiritual life. The early church's ability to resolve conflicts and maintain unity was rooted in their connection to Christ, the vine. As we navigate our own challenges and disagreements, we are reminded to stay connected to Jesus through prayer and community. This connection empowers us to bear fruit in our actions and attitudes, fostering a spirit of love and unity. The moral lesson here is clear: our spiritual life must be both personally nourished and communally expressed, reflecting Jesus' command to love one another and bear fruit.