Daily Readings - Thu May 21 2020
Acts
1After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;2And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.3And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.4And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.5And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.6And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.7And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.8And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.
John
16A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.17Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?18They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.19Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?20Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound moments of transition and trust in God's plan. The first reading from Acts 18:1-8 describes Paul's missionary journey in Corinth. Despite facing rejection from the Jewish community, Paul remains steadfast in his faith, continuing his ministry and converting many Gentiles. His perseverance in the face of adversity is a testament to his unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel. The second reading from John 16:16-20 captures a moment of confusion and sorrow among Jesus' disciples as He speaks about His impending departure. Jesus reassures them that their sorrow will be transformed into joy, a promise that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced loss or uncertainty.
Both readings highlight the theme of transition and the promise of joy after sorrow. Paul's experience in Corinth reminds us that even in the face of rejection, God's work continues to flourish. Jesus' words to His disciples invite us to trust in His plan, even when the future seems unclear. These passages encourage us to embrace faith and perseverance, knowing that our struggles are not in vain.
As we reflect on these readings, let us consider how they apply to our own lives. When we face challenges or uncertainties, we are called to trust in God's timing and plan. Just as Paul found strength in his mission and the disciples would eventually understand Jesus' words, we too can find joy in the midst of adversity. Let us embrace the promise that our sorrow will be turned into joy, and let us continue to walk in faith, trusting that God is always with us.