Daily Readings - Fri May 29 2020

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 enduring call to follow Christ. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s imprisonment and his appeal to Caesar, highlighting his unwavering faith amidst uncertainty. The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Peter’s love is tested, and he is entrusted with the care of Christ’s flock. These passages, though distinct, share a common theme of trust and service. Paul’s situation illustrates the challenges of standing firm in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. His determination to appeal to Caesar, despite the risks, shows his commitment to spreading the Gospel. Similarly, Peter’s interaction with Jesus underscores the depth of love and responsibility that comes with following Christ. Jesus’ threefold question to Peter, despite his earlier denial, is a moment of grace and reinstatement, charging Peter with the care of His sheep. In our daily lives, these readings remind us to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with adversity. Like Paul, we may encounter trials that test our faith, but through perseverance, we can emerge stronger. Like Peter, we are called to love deeply and serve others, recognizing that our love for God is expressed through our actions. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities of each day with faith, trusting that God’s plan will unfold, and that our service to others is a testament to our love for Him.