Daily Readings - Sat May 27 2017
First Reading - Acts 18.23-28
Acts
And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Gospel - John 16.23b-28
John
And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you:For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Acts 18:23-28 introduces us to Apollos, a man of great eloquence and scriptural knowledge, yet limited in his understanding of the faith. It is through the mentorship of Priscilla and Aquila that Apollos's knowledge deepens, enabling him to minister more effectively. This story underscores the importance of community and mentorship in our spiritual growth, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith.
The Gospel reading from John 16:23b-28 shifts our focus to the intimate relationship we have with God through prayer. Jesus assures us that our prayers, offered in His name, will be heard by the Father. He promises that our joy will be complete as we experience the fruits of our prayers. This passage invites us to embrace prayer as a direct line of communication with God, trusting in His love and provision.
Reflecting on these readings, we are called to a balanced approach in our spiritual lives. Just as Apollos needed guidance, we too benefit from the wisdom of others and the support of our faith community. Simultaneously, we are encouraged to cultivate a personal prayer life, trusting in God's loving response. Let us seek to grow both through the wisdom of others and through direct communion with God, knowing that our spiritual growth is both communal and deeply personal. In this balance, we find the joy and fulfillment that Jesus promises.