Daily Readings - Thu Apr 15 2021
Acts
27And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,28Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.29Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.30The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.31Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins.32And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.33When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them.
John
31He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.32And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and no man receiveth his testimony.33He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.34For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.35The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.36He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages about faith, obedience, and the divine truth. The first reading from Acts 5:27-33 depicts Peter and the apostles standing courageously before the council, refusing to cease their teachings about Jesus. Despite the council's anger and threats, they remain steadfast, declaring their allegiance to God over men. This passage highlights the early Church's resilience and the apostles' unwavering commitment to spreading Jesus' message, even in the face of persecution.
The Gospel from John 3:31-36 shifts our focus to Jesus' divine origin and the imperative of belief. Jesus, coming from heaven, speaks God's words, offering testimony of divine truth. The passage emphasizes that belief in Jesus leads to eternal life, while unbelief results in remaining under God's wrath. This underscores the significance of trusting in Jesus as the source of eternal life and the embodiment of God's truth.
Both readings converge on the themes of testimony and obedience to God. The apostles in Acts testify to Jesus' resurrection and salvation, obeying God despite earthly threats. In John, Jesus is the divine testimony, and believing in him is paramount. This connection reminds us that our faith must be our guiding principle, influencing our actions and decisions, even when faced with challenges.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to remain faithful and courageous. We may encounter situations where we must choose between conforming to worldly norms or standing up for our beliefs. Like the apostles, we are called to trust in God's plan and remain steadfast, even when it is difficult. Our commitment to Jesus should guide our actions, trusting that He will navigate us through life's trials.
The moral lesson is clear: Jesus is the ultimate truth, and our commitment to Him should be unwavering. We must obey God's will, even when it leads us through challenging circumstances, trusting in His guidance and plan. Let us embrace this truth, allowing it to transform our lives and strengthen our resolve to follow Him faithfully.