Daily Readings - Wed Apr 11 2018
Acts
17Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,18And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison.19But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,20Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.21And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.22But when the officers came, and found them not in the prison, they returned, and told,23Saying, The prison truly found we shut with all safety, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened, we found no man within.24Now when the high priest and the captain of the temple and the chief priests heard these things, they doubted of them whereunto this would grow.25Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in the temple, and teaching the people.26Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned.
John
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.19And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.20For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.21But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, perseverance, and the choice between light and darkness. The First Reading from Acts recounts the Apostles' unwavering commitment to their mission despite imprisonment and opposition. Freed by an angel, they continue to teach boldly, embodying the courage and resilience that defines their faith. The Gospel from John presents the iconic verse about God's love and the gift of eternal life through Jesus. It contrasts light and darkness, urging us to embrace the light of truth and goodness over the shadows of evil.
The context of these readings is crucial. Acts highlights the early Christian community's struggles against religious authorities, illustrating the tension between tradition and the new message of Christ. The Apostles' perseverance underscores the importance of standing firm in faith despite adversity. In John, Jesus' dialogue with Nicodemus emphasizes the transformative power of belief and the judgment that comes from rejecting the light. Together, these passages remind us that our faith is not just a belief but a way of life that requires courage and commitment.
These readings relate to each other through the theme of standing firm in faith amidst challenges. The Apostles in Acts face persecution yet continue their mission, while John's Gospel calls us to choose light over darkness. This duality encourages us to reflect on our own lives—how do we respond to challenges? Do we shrink back, or do we stand firm, trusting in God's plan?
In our daily lives, we face moments where our faith is tested. Whether it's standing up for our beliefs or choosing right over wrong, these readings inspire us to act with courage. The moral lesson here is clear: perseverance and trust in God's plan are essential. Just as the Apostles trusted God's guidance, we too can navigate life's challenges with faith, knowing that our actions reflect our commitment to the light of Christ.
As we go forth, let us remember that our faith is a beacon of light in a world often shrouded in darkness. May we embrace the courage of the Apostles and the transformative power of Christ's love, choosing each day to walk in the light and share its radiance with others.