Daily Readings - Mon Apr 22 2024
Acts
1And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.2And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,3Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.4But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,5I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:6Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.7And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.8But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.9But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.10And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.11And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Caesarea unto me.12And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man's house:13And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;14Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.15And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.16Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.17Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?18When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
John
1Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.2But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep.3To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.4And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.5And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.6This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them.7Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep.8All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.9I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.10The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound lessons about God’s universal love and the true nature of leadership. The first reading from Acts recounts Peter’s vision and his defense before the Jerusalem community, highlighting the inclusion of Gentiles in the early Christian Church. This passage shows the Holy Spirit’s work in breaking down barriers, teaching us that the Gospel is for all people. The Gospel from John presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing His role as the true leader who provides abundant life, contrasting with false shepherds who seek to harm.
The context of Acts 11 is pivotal, as it addresses the early church’s struggle with inclusivity. Peter’s vision and experience with Cornelius’ household led to the understanding that God’s message is not confined to the Jewish people. This was a radical shift, challenging the existing norms and opening the church to a broader community. In John 10, Jesus uses the shepherd metaphor to illustrate His authority and care, distinguishing Himself from false leaders who do not have the flock’s best interests at heart.
Both readings relate through themes of inclusion and true leadership. Acts shows the church expanding beyond its initial boundaries, while John emphasizes Jesus as the true leader who provides salvation. Together, they highlight God’s universal plan and Jesus’ role as the Good Shepherd, guiding us to abundant life.
In our daily lives, these readings call us to embrace diversity and recognize Jesus as our guide. We should be open to others, just as the early church was, and trust in Jesus’ leadership. The moral lesson here is one of unity and inclusion, reminding us that God’s love knows no bounds. As we navigate our lives, let us follow the Good Shepherd, trusting in His care and living out the universal message of love and salvation.