Daily Readings - Fri May 06 2022
2 Timothy
1I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;2Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.3For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.5But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
John
11I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep.12But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep.13The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep.14I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.15As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.16And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound call to faithfulness and selfless love. The first reading from 2 Timothy urges us to remain steadfast in our mission, even when the world grows indifferent or hostile to the truth. Paul, nearing the end of his life, implores Timothy to fulfill his ministry with urgency and integrity, warning that a time will come when people will turn away from sound doctrine in favor of comforting lies. This passage calls us to perseverance and fidelity, no matter the challenges we face.
The Gospel from John offers a complementary message through the image of the Good Shepherd. Jesus contrasts Himself with the hired hand who flees in times of danger, emphasizing His unwavering commitment to His sheep. He lays down His life for them, knowing them deeply and being known by them in return. This passage invites us to reflect on the nature of true leadership and love, which are rooted in sacrifice and genuine care. Just as the Good Shepherd knows His sheep, we are called to know and follow His voice in our lives.
Together, these readings challenge us to live with purpose and integrity. In a world that often prioritizes comfort and convenience, we are called to remain faithful to the truth, even when it is difficult. Like the Good Shepherd, we are to care for one another with selfless love, putting the needs of others before our own. As we navigate the complexities of daily life, may we strive to embody this kind of fidelity and compassion, trusting in God’s grace to guide and sustain us.