Daily Readings - Sat Jun 07 2025
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
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of perseverance, trust in God's plan, and the importance of staying focused on our own calling as followers of Christ. In the first reading from Acts, we see Paul, though imprisoned in Rome, continuing to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. Despite the chains that bind him, he remains free in spirit, using every opportunity to share the message of salvation. This passage reminds us that our circumstances do not define our ability to serve God; even in confinement, Paul’s heart remains open to all who seek truth.
In the Gospel, we encounter a moment of tender yet profound teaching from Jesus. When Peter asks about the fate of the beloved disciple, Jesus responds with a message that transcends curiosity about others. He tells Peter, "What about him? You follow me." This exchange underscores the importance of focusing on our own relationship with Christ rather than comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey. Jesus’ words are a gentle reminder that each of us has a unique role to play in His plan, and our energy should be directed toward following Him faithfully.
These readings together teach us about the balance between perseverance and trust. Like Paul, we are called to remain steadfast in our mission, even when faced with obstacles. And like Peter, we are invited to let go of distractions and keep our eyes fixed on Christ. In our daily lives, this means embracing our own challenges with courage and trusting that God is at work in ways we may not fully understand. Let us strive to follow Christ with the same dedication as Paul and the same humility as Peter, knowing that our ultimate purpose is to serve Him and share His love with the world.