Daily Readings - Fri May 21 2021
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 trust, faithfulness, and divine providence. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul's continued imprisonment under Governor Festus, who seeks to understand the charges against him. Festus, unsure of how to proceed, involves King Agrippa, highlighting the complexities of human judgment and the search for truth. This narrative reminds us that even in uncertainty, our faith must remain steadfast, trusting in God's plan.
The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Jesus thrice asks Peter if he loves Him, each time charging him to "feed my sheep." This exchange is not just a test of Peter's devotion but a recommissioning, restoring him to a position of leadership after his earlier denial. It underscores the importance of trust and the call to serve others with love and humility.
These readings intertwine themes of trust and responsibility. Paul's situation illustrates trusting God amidst uncertainty, while Peter's dialogue with Jesus emphasizes the call to faithful service. In our lives, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances are unclear, and to embrace our roles in caring for one another. Let us strive to be faithful stewards, trusting in God's plan and lovingly serving those around us.