Daily Readings - Tue May 17 2022
Acts
19And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.20Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.21And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,22Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.23And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.24And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.25And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:26And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.27And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.28And there they abode long time with the disciples.
John
27Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.28Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.29And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.30Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.31But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, perseverance, and divine trust. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s missionary journey, where he faces intense persecution, including being stoned and left for dead. Yet, Paul resiliently continues his mission, establishing churches and strengthening the faith of the early Christians. This passage highlights the early church’s challenges and the unwavering commitment of its missionaries.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus comforting His disciples before His departure. He offers them a peace that transcends the world’s understanding, rooted in His obedience to the Father. Jesus’ words are a farewell discourse, preparing His followers for the challenges ahead, emphasizing trust and faith in divine providence.
Both readings intersect in their themes of trust and perseverance amidst adversity. Paul’s resilience mirrors Jesus’ trust in the Father, illustrating how faith navigates us through life’s trials. These stories remind us to face challenges with courage and trust in God’s plan, finding peace in His presence. Let us embrace this peace, enduring hardships with faith, just as Paul and Jesus did, trusting that God’s grace will guide us through.