Daily Readings - Sat Apr 13 2024
Acts
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.
John
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 trust, faith, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The first reading from Acts describes a pivotal moment in the early Christian Church where the apostles, faced with a growing community and the neglect of certain widows, entrusted the solution to the Holy Spirit. By selecting seven men of good character and wisdom, they ensured that the needs of all were met, allowing the apostles to focus on their primary mission of prayer and teaching. This act of delegation not only resolved the immediate issue but also fostered unity and growth within the community.
The Gospel from John presents a dramatic scene where Jesus calms the fears of His disciples during a storm. As they struggled against the waves and wind, Jesus appeared walking on the water, reassuring them with the words, "It is I. Do not be afraid." This moment of divine intervention reminds us that even in the midst of turmoil, God is ever-present and ready to guide us to safety. The disciples' fear turned to trust as they welcomed Jesus into the boat, leading them swiftly to their destination.
These readings remind us of the importance of trusting in God's providence. Just as the early Church trusted the Holy Spirit to guide their decisions, we too can trust that God will navigate us through life's challenges. In our daily struggles, whether personal or communal, we are called to have faith that God's plan will prevail. Let us embrace this trust, allowing it to lead us to peaceful shores, just as it did for the disciples. May we, like the early Christians, be open to the Holy Spirit's guidance, ensuring that our actions and decisions reflect God's will, leading to a harmonious and thriving community.