Daily Readings - Sat Apr 23 2022
Acts
13Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.14And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.15But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves,16Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.17But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.18And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.19But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.20For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.21So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all men glorified God for that which was done.
Mark
9Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.10And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.11And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not.12After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the country.13And they went and told it unto the residue: neither believed they them.14Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen.15And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound moments in the early Christian narrative that invite us to reflect on courage, faith, and our role as witnesses of Christ's love. The first reading from Acts 4:13-21 presents Peter and John standing courageously before the Sanhedrin, refusing to be silenced despite threats. Their unwavering commitment to preach the Gospel, even in the face of persecution, highlights the transformative power of faith. The second reading from Mark 16:9-15 shifts our focus to the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus. Despite initial disbelief, the disciples are commissioned to spread the Gospel to all creation, a call that resonates with us today.
Both readings are set in the context of early Christianity, where the message of Jesus was met with both wonder and opposition. In Acts, the apostles' steadfastness in the face of authority reflects the challenges of sharing the Gospel in a hostile environment. In Mark, the disciples' journey from doubt to belief underscores the human struggle with faith and the ultimate trust in God's plan. These narratives intersect in their emphasis on the imperative to witness, despite obstacles, illustrating that the call to spread the Gospel is universal and timeless.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace our role as modern-day disciples. Like Peter and John, we may face challenges in living out our faith, but their courage reminds us to trust in God's guidance. Similarly, the disciples' transformation from disbelief to belief invites us to reflect on our own faith journeys. As we navigate life's uncertainties, we are called to perseverance and trust, sharing the Good News with love and courage. Let us, therefore, go forth with renewed commitment, embodying the faith and resilience of the early Christians, and spread the message of Christ's love to all we encounter.