Daily Readings - Fri Jun 07 2019
Acts
27But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound.
13And after certain days king Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.14And when they had been there many days, Festus declared Paul's cause unto the king, saying, There is a certain man left in bonds by Felix:15About whom, when I was at Jerusalem, the chief priests and the elders of the Jews informed me, desiring to have judgment against him.16To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to deliver any man to die, before that he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself concerning the crime laid against him.17Therefore, when they were come hither, without any delay on the morrow I sat on the judgment seat, and commanded the man to be brought forth.18Against whom when the accusers stood up, they brought none accusation of such things as I supposed:19But had certain questions against him of their own superstition, and of one Jesus, which was dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.20And because I doubted of such manner of questions, I asked him whether he would go to Jerusalem, and there be judged of these matters.21But when Paul had appealed to be reserved unto the hearing of Augustus, I commanded him to be kept till I might send him to Caesar.
John
15So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.16He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.17He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.18Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.19This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, leadership, and the challenges of following Christ. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s imprisonment and legal journey, highlighting his unwavering faith amidst adversity. Despite the weak accusations against him, Paul’s commitment to his mission never wavers, demonstrating his trust in God’s plan. The second reading from John’s Gospel presents a poignant moment where Jesus restores Peter, asking him three times if he loves Him. Each affirmation leads to a charge to “feed His sheep,” culminating in a prediction of Peter’s future martyrdom. This exchange underscores the essence of leadership rooted in love and self-sacrifice.
Both readings, though distinct, share a common theme of discipleship. Paul’s perseverance in the face of legal challenges and Peter’s acceptance of his mission illustrate the different yet complementary aspects of following Christ. Paul’s story emphasizes enduring trials with faith, while Peter’s narrative highlights the transformative power of love and the responsibility that comes with it. Together, they remind us that our faith is not merely a belief but a call to action, whether through steadfastness in adversity or through loving service to others.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace our own missions with courage and love. Like Paul, we may face unexpected challenges, but our faith should remain unshaken. Like Peter, we are called to love deeply and serve selflessly, even when the path is difficult. Let us draw inspiration from these examples, remembering that our faith journey is not about comfort but about fidelity to God’s will. May we, like Paul and Peter, embrace our crosses with grace and fulfill the mission entrusted to us, glorifying God in all we do.