Daily Readings - Sat May 27 2023
Acts
16And when we came to Rome, the centurion delivered the prisoners to the captain of the guard: but Paul was suffered to dwell by himself with a soldier that kept him.17And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when they were come together, he said unto them, Men and brethren, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans.18Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me.19But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had ought to accuse my nation of.20For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain.30And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,31Preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
John
20Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?21Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do?22Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me.23Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die: yet Jesus said not unto him, He shall not die; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?24This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his testimony is true.25And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful examples of faith and trust in God’s plan. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s ministry while under house arrest in Rome. Despite his confinement, Paul continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication, welcoming all who come to him and teaching about the kingdom of God. His situation could have been one of despair, but instead, it becomes an opportunity to spread the Good News. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Peter’s curiosity about the future of another disciple, but Jesus redirects Peter’s focus, saying, “What about him? You follow me.” This exchange emphasizes the importance of trusting in God’s unique plan for each individual.
These readings remind us that our lives are not defined by our circumstances but by our response to God’s call. Paul, though a prisoner, remained faithful and fruitful in his mission. Peter, faced with uncertainty, learns to focus on his own relationship with Jesus rather than comparing himself to others. Both stories highlight the importance of surrendering to God’s will and trusting in His timing, even when the path ahead is unclear.
As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: Are we allowing God to use us wherever we are, even in challenging situations? Do we trust in His plan for our lives, or do we get distracted by comparing ourselves to others? May we, like Paul, remain faithful and fruitful in our own mission, and may we, like Peter, focus on following Jesus with all our hearts. Let us surrender to God’s will, knowing that He has a unique purpose for each of us.