Daily Catholic Mass Readings for May 4, 2019
First Reading: Acts 6.1-7
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.
Psalm 33
1Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.2Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.3Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.4For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.5He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.6By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.7He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses.8Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.9For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.10The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.11The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.12Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.13The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.14From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.15He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.16There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.17An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.18Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;19To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.20Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield.21For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.22Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.
Gospel: John 6.16-21
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 profound narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 6:1-7 illustrates the early Christian community addressing a practical challenge. The Greek widows were being overlooked in the distribution of resources, prompting the Apostles to seek a solution. Recognizing their primary role as preachers of the Word, they entrusted the community to choose seven spirit-filled men, who became the first deacons. This decision, guided by the Holy Spirit, ensured that all members were cared for, allowing the Apostles to focus on their ministry. This passage highlights the importance of organized leadership and the Holy Spirit's role in maintaining harmony and service within the community.
The Gospel reading from John 6:16-21 presents a dramatic scene where Jesus walks on water to join His disciples during a storm. This miracle not only showcases Jesus's divine power but also His comforting presence in times of turmoil. The disciples, facing the fury of the sea, find immediate peace upon Jesus's arrival, as the boat reaches its destination. This narrative emphasizes faith and trust in God's providence, especially when we face life's challenges.
These readings connect through the theme of divine guidance and trust. In Acts, the Holy Spirit directs the community to resolve a social issue through the appointment of deacons. In John, Jesus's presence brings calm to His disciples, reminding us of His ever-present help. Both stories encourage us to trust in God's plan and to serve others selflessly. In our daily lives, we can apply these lessons by seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance in our decisions and by being instruments of peace and service to those around us. Let us reflect on how we can trust in God's providence and serve others with love, just as the early church and Jesus have shown us.