Daily Readings - Wed Jan 06 2021
1 John
11Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.12No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.13Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.14And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.15Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.16And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.17Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.18There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.
Mark
45And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.46And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.47And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land.48And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them.49But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out:50For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid.51And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered.52For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the profound connection between God's love and our faith. The first reading from 1 John 4:11-18 emphasizes that God's love is the foundation of our existence, and we are called to reflect this love in our interactions with others. The Gospel from Mark 6:45-52 illustrates this love in action through Jesus' calming of the storm, teaching us to trust in His providence even in turbulent times.
The context of 1 John's letter is one of encouragement, urging believers to embrace love as a divine attribute. Mark's narrative follows the feeding of the 5000, highlighting Jesus' divine power and care for His disciples. Both readings underscore the importance of faith and trust in God's plan.
These readings intertwine beautifully, as they both call us to trust God and demonstrate His love. In our daily lives, we face storms—challenges that test our faith. Like the disciples, we may feel isolated or fearful, but Jesus' presence offers calm and reassurance. By trusting in His love, we can navigate life's difficulties with courage.
The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's providence and embody His love. Just as Jesus calmed the storm, He can bring peace to our lives. Let us strive to love others as God loves us, reflecting His grace in all we do. In doing so, we not only deepen our faith but also become beacons of hope and love in the world.