Daily Catholic Mass Readings for April 22, 2023
First Reading: Acts 6.1-7
1And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration.2Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables.3Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.4But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.5And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch:6Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.7And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
Psalm 33
1Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.2Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.3Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.4For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.5He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.6By the word of the LORD were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.7He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses.8Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.9For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.10The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.11The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.12Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.13The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.14From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.15He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.16There is no king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much strength.17An horse is a vain thing for safety: neither shall he deliver any by his great strength.18Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;19To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.20Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he is our help and our shield.21For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name.22Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.
Gospel: John 6.16-21
16And when even was now come, his disciples went down unto the sea,17And entered into a ship, and went over the sea toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not come to them.18And the sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.19So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh unto the ship: and they were afraid.20But he saith unto them, It is I; be not afraid.21Then they willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither they went.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, service, and trust in God. The first reading from Acts 6:1-7 presents a moment of crisis in the early Christian community. The Greek-speaking widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution, leading to discontent. The apostles, recognizing the need for balance between spiritual and practical responsibilities, appointed seven men to oversee the care of the widows. This solution not only resolved the issue but also led to the expansion of the church, as even many priests began to follow the faith. This story highlights the importance of addressing practical needs with wisdom and faith, ensuring that all members of the community are valued and cared for.
The Gospel reading from John 6:16-21 shifts our focus to a dramatic scene of Jesus walking on water. The disciples, caught in a storm, were filled with fear when they saw Jesus approaching the boat. Yet, Jesus reassured them with the words, "It is I. Do not be afraid," and immediately the boat reached its destination. This miracle underscores Jesus' power over nature and his role as a source of comfort and rescue in times of turmoil. It invites us to trust in God's presence and providence, even when we face challenges and uncertainties.
Both readings remind us of the importance of faith and trust in our daily lives. Just as the early Christian community addressed their practical needs while remaining focused on their spiritual mission, we too can face our challenges with faith and wisdom. Like the disciples in the storm, we may encounter difficulties that fill us with fear, but Jesus' words, "It is I. Do not be afraid," offer us comfort and reassurance. Let us strive to trust in God's plan, serve one another with love and compassion, and find peace in the midst of life's storms.