Daily Readings - Fri May 14 2021
Acts
15And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)16Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.17For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.20For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.21Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,22Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.23And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.24And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,25That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.26And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
John
9As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.10If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.11These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.12This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.13Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.14Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.15Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.16Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.17These things I command you, that ye love one another.
Sermon
In today's readings, we witness the early church's response to the vacancy left by Judas, as described in Acts. Peter leads the community in prayer, seeking God's guidance to choose a worthy replacement. This moment highlights the importance of unity and discernment, as they rely on prayer and trust in God's will through the casting of lots, leading to Matthias joining the apostles. This act underscores the community's commitment to maintaining the integrity and continuity of their mission, guided by faith and collaboration.
In the Gospel, Jesus shares a profound message of love and friendship. He redefines the relationship between Himself and His disciples, elevating it from servitude to friendship. This transformation is rooted in mutual love and obedience, as Jesus commands His followers to love one another as He has loved them. The essence of this love is selflessness, exemplified by the greatest act of laying down one's life for others. Jesus also emphasizes that we are chosen by Him to bear lasting fruit, a metaphor for the transformative impact of living out His teachings.
These readings intertwine the themes of community, prayerful decision-making, and selfless love. The early church's unity in selecting Matthias reflects their dedication to Jesus' teachings, particularly the commandment to love. In our daily lives, we are called to embody this love, whether in our personal relationships or community decisions. Let us embrace our role as chosen by God, responding with hearts full of love and service, bearing fruit that endures. May we, like the early church, trust in God's guidance and strive to live as true friends of Christ, spreading His love in all we do.