Daily Readings - Sat May 19 2018
Acts
16And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.17And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.18Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.19But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.20For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.30And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,31Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
John
20Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?21Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?22Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.23Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?24This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.25And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful testimonies of faith and perseverance. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s time in Rome, where, despite being under house arrest, he continued to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. Paul explains to the Jewish leaders that he has done nothing wrong and that his imprisonment is the result of false accusations. Yet, even in chains, he remains steadfast in his mission, teaching about the kingdom of God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. His example shows us that even in the most challenging circumstances, our faith can shine through.
The Gospel from John 21 shifts our focus to a conversation between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Peter notices John following Jesus and asks, “What about him?” Jesus responds by telling Peter not to be concerned with John’s path but to focus on his own: “You follow me.” This exchange reminds us that each of us has a unique role in God’s plan. It is easy to get distracted by comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey, but Jesus calls us to trust in His plan and to focus on our own relationship with Him.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own lives. Like Paul, we may face obstacles or challenges, but we are called to remain faithful and to share the Good News with others, no matter the circumstances. Like Peter, we may be tempted to look at others and wonder about their path, but Jesus reminds us to focus on our own call to follow Him. Let us trust in God’s plan for us and remain committed to living out our faith with perseverance and joy.