Daily Readings - Wed May 10 2017

First Reading - Acts 12.24 13.5a

Acts

Chapter 12

²⁴But the word of God grew and multiplied.

Chapter 13

⁵And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.

Gospel - John 12.44-50

⁴⁴Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth not on me, but on him that sent me.⁴⁵And he that seeth me seeth him that sent me.⁴⁶I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.⁴⁷And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge him not: for I came not to judge the world, but to save the world.⁴⁸He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.⁴⁹For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak.⁵⁰And I know that his commandment is life everlasting: whatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me, so I speak.

Sermon

The readings today invite us to reflect on the power of God's Word and our response to it. In the first reading from Acts, we see the early Christian community thriving as the Word of God spreads rapidly. The missionaries, including John, preach in the synagogues, showing the importance of collaboration in sharing the Gospel. This passage highlights the church's early focus on spreading the message and the teamwork involved in ministry. In the Gospel, Jesus emphasizes that believing in Him is believing in the Father who sent Him. He describes Himself as a light to the world, offering salvation to all who accept Him. However, Jesus also warns that those who reject Him will be judged by His own words. This duality underscores His role as both savior and the source of judgment, stressing the importance of accepting His teachings. These readings remind us to embrace God's Word actively and to share it with others. Like the early missionaries, we are called to spread the Gospel in our own ways. Jesus' words challenge us to live according to His teachings, mindful that our response to His message will shape our eternal destiny. Let us strive to be lights in the world, reflecting God's love and truth, and to accept the responsibility that comes with following Christ.