Daily Readings - Sat May 16 2020
Acts
1Then came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus, the son of a certain woman, which was a Jewess, and believed; but his father was a Greek:2Which was well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.3Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.4And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the decrees for to keep, that were ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.5And so were the churches established in the faith, and increased in number daily.6Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,7After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not.8And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas.9And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.10And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.
John
18If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you.19If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.20Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.21But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through two pivotal moments in the early Christian church and the life of Jesus, each offering profound insights into faith and discipleship. The first reading from Acts 16:1-10 introduces us to Timothy, a young disciple with a mixed heritage, whom Paul circumcises to facilitate their missionary work among the Jews. This act, though seemingly contradictory to earlier teachings, underscores Paul's strategic obedience to God's plan for spreading the Gospel. The narrative continues with the missionaries being guided by the Holy Spirit, highlighting their trust in divine direction as they navigate the challenges of their journey.
The Gospel reading from John 15:18-21 shifts our focus to Jesus' Farewell Discourse, where He warns His disciples of the world's hatred. Jesus explains that this hatred stems from their status as outsiders, chosen by God from the world. He reminds them that persecution is inevitable, just as He experienced, but assures them that their fidelity to His word will sustain them. This passage invites us to reflect on our own identity as followers of Christ, set apart and called to live according to His teachings.
Both readings intertwine themes of trust and fidelity. In Acts, Paul and Timothy's journey exemplifies trust in God's plan, even when it requires difficult decisions. In John, Jesus calls us to remain faithful despite the world's hostility. For us today, these readings encourage us to trust in God's guidance and to embrace our identity as His disciples, even when facing challenges. Let us strive to live with fidelity, trusting that God's plan will unfold, and enduring any persecution with courage and faith.