Daily Readings - Sat May 14 2022
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 reflect on the essence of community, love, and divine guidance. The first reading from Acts recounts the disciples' decision to replace Judas, emphasizing their reliance on prayer and trust in God's will. This moment highlights the importance of unity and the need to maintain the integrity of their group as they await the Holy Spirit. The selection of Matthias through prayer and casting lots underscores the early Church's commitment to communal decision-making and faith in divine guidance.
The Gospel from John deepens this reflection as Jesus shares His final teachings, focusing on love and friendship. He calls His disciples friends, not servants, and commands them to love one another as He has loved them. This love is not passive but active, a selfless commitment that mirrors Jesus' own sacrifice. The readings together remind us that our faith is not solitary but lived within a community bound by love and mutual support.
In our daily lives, these teachings invite us to embody love and unity. Just as the early disciples came together in faith, we too should seek God's guidance in our decisions and nurture our communities with love. Let us strive to be friends of Jesus, living out His commandments and spreading His love. May we bear fruit that lasts, inspiring others through our actions and fostering a world united in love and faith.