Daily Readings - Thu Apr 28 2022
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 two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 5:27-33 depicts Peter and the Apostles standing courageously before the council, refusing to cease their preaching despite the threats they face. Their unwavering commitment to obeying God's will over human authority highlights the early church's resilience amidst persecution. The second reading, John 3:31-36, presents Jesus' discourse on His divine origin and the imperative of belief in Him for eternal life, underscoring the profound truth of His mission as the Son of God.
Both readings converge on the themes of obedience to God and the transformative power of faith. The Apostles' defiance in the face of adversity mirrors Jesus' own unwavering dedication to His Father's will. This connection reminds us that our faith must be rooted in a deep trust in God, even when faced with challenges. The readings encourage us to reflect on our own commitment to living out our faith authentically, just as the Apostles did, and to embrace the eternal life offered through belief in Jesus.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to stand firm in our faith, even when societal pressures or personal struggles arise. They remind us that true obedience to God's will can lead us through any trial, offering us the strength to persevere. Let us draw inspiration from the Apostles' courage and Jesus' teachings, trusting in God's plan and striving to live as witnesses of His love. May our faith be a beacon of hope, guiding us toward eternal life in Christ.