Daily Readings - Tue May 14 2024
Acts
15And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of names together were about an hundred and twenty,)16Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.17For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.20For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.21Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,22Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.23And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.24And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,25That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.26And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
John
9As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love.10If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love.11These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.12This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.13Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.14Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.15Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.16Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.17These things I command you, that ye love one another.
Sermon
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the essence of community, love, and mission in our Christian journey. In the First Reading from Acts, the apostles, following Jesus’ ascension, address the vacancy left by Judas. They seek to maintain the integrity of their group, ensuring their number remains at twelve, a symbol of completeness. This act underscores the importance of unity and continuity in the face of loss. The Gospel from John complements this narrative, as Jesus, preparing His disciples for His departure, emphasizes the foundation of their mission: love. He calls them friends, sharing all He has received from the Father, and commissions them to bear lasting fruit through love.
The context of these readings is pivotal. The apostles, after the resurrection, are restoring their community to fulfill their mission effectively. Similarly, Jesus, in His final discourse, prepares His disciples to carry on His work, rooted in love. These passages highlight the interconnectedness of community and mission, showing that a united body is essential for spreading God’s message.
In our daily lives, these readings remind us to cherish and nurture unity within our communities. Just as the apostles sought to maintain their integrity, we must strive to keep our relationships grounded in love and mutual support. Jesus’ commandment to love one another is not merely a suggestion but the cornerstone of our Christian identity. As we go about our lives, we are called to bear fruit through acts of love and service, reflecting Jesus’ example. Let us embrace this mission with joy and fidelity, remembering that our actions speak volumes about our faith.