Daily Readings - Sat Apr 14 2018
Acts
1And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.2Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.3Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.4But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.5And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:6Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.7And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
John
16And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea,17And entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them.18And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.19So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.20But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.21Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful lessons about faith, trust, and the presence of God in the midst of challenges. The first reading from Acts describes the early Christian community facing a practical problem: the fair distribution of resources to widows. The apostles, recognizing the need for order and justice, entrust the task to seven Spirit-filled men, including Stephen and Philip. This decision not only resolves the immediate issue but also allows the apostles to focus on their primary mission of preaching and prayer. The result is a flourishing community, with even many priests coming to faith. This passage reminds us that the Church’s growth is rooted in unity, delegation, and trusting in the Holy Spirit’s guidance.
The Gospel from John takes us to a dramatic scene on the Sea of Galilee. Jesus’ disciples, struggling against a fierce storm, are met with fear and uncertainty. Then, in the midst of the chaos, Jesus appears walking on the water. His words, “It is I. Do not be afraid,” bring immediate calm and assurance. The boat, once tossed by the waves, reaches its destination instantly. This miracle is not just a display of divine power but a profound invitation to trust in God’s presence, even when the storms of life seem overwhelming.
Both readings invite us to reflect on how we respond to challenges. In Acts, the early Church faced a problem and solved it through collaboration and faith in the Spirit. In John’s Gospel, the disciples learned to trust in Jesus’ presence, even when circumstances seemed hopeless. For us, these stories remind us to approach life’s difficulties with faith and trust. Like the apostles, we must delegate and work together to build a community of love and justice. Like the disciples, we must keep our eyes fixed on Christ, knowing that he is always with us, even in the darkest moments. Let us strive to live with this kind of faith, trusting that God’s plan will guide us safely to our destination.