Daily Catholic Mass Readings for May 23, 2020
First Reading: Acts 18.23-28
23And after he had spent some time there, he departed, and went over all the country of Galatia and Phrygia in order, strengthening all the disciples.24And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, and mighty in the scriptures, came to Ephesus.25This man was instructed in the way of the Lord; and being fervent in the spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, knowing only the baptism of John.26And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.27And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through grace:28For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly, shewing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ.
Psalm 47
1O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.2For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth.3He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.4He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.5God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet.6Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises.7For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding.8God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness.9The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.
Gospel: John 16.23b-28
23And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.24Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.25These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.26At that day ye shall ask in my name: and I say not unto you, that I will pray the Father for you:27For the Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God.28I came forth from the Father, and am come into the world: again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts introduces us to Apollos, a passionate preacher who, despite his eloquence and knowledge, needed further guidance in understanding the fullness of the Gospel. With the help of Priscilla and Aquila, he deepened his faith and continued to spread the message of Christ effectively. This highlights the importance of community and continuous learning in our spiritual growth.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus discussing the nature of prayer and our relationship with the Father. He assures us that our requests in his name will be heard, emphasizing trust and unity with God. This passage transitions from speaking in proverbs to a clearer understanding, reflecting the disciples' growing comprehension of Jesus' divine mission.
Both readings remind us that our faith is a journey requiring both personal dedication and communal support. Just as Apollos sought guidance, we too should embrace opportunities to learn and grow. Similarly, Jesus's words encourage us to trust in prayer, knowing we are loved and heard. Let us deepen our faith, seek wisdom, and trust in God's providence, allowing these teachings to enrich our daily lives and spiritual walks.