Daily Readings - Sat Jun 08 2019
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 profound lessons on trust and focus in our walk with God. The First Reading from Acts describes Paul's house arrest in Rome, where despite his confinement, he continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. This highlights Paul's unshakable trust in God's plan and his commitment to his mission, even in the face of adversity. The Gospel from John presents a conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of each disciple following their unique path without comparing themselves to others. This teaches us to focus on our own journey with Jesus, trusting in His plan for us.
The context of these readings is significant. Paul, in Rome, is at the heart of the empire, symbolizing the spread of Christianity into the world's center. His perseverance under house arrest underscores the early Church's resilience. In John's Gospel, the post-resurrection setting reminds us that our roles as disciples are defined by trust and obedience. Both readings encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, whether in challenging circumstances or in understanding our specific calling.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded to focus on our own responsibilities and trust in God's plan. Like Paul, we should remain dedicated to our mission, even when faced with obstacles. Like Peter, we should avoid distractions and comparisons, instead following Jesus faithfully. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan and focus on your own path. Let us embrace our unique roles, trusting that God's timing and purpose are perfect, and live each day with faith and dedication.