Daily Readings - Sat May 18 2024
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 faithfulness and trust in God’s plan. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s time under house arrest in Rome, where, despite his confinement, he continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. The second reading from John’s Gospel shows Jesus gently redirecting Peter’s focus away from the fate of another disciple and back to his own calling. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on the importance of trusting in God’s will and remaining faithful to our own unique mission.
The context of these readings is significant. Paul, despite being a prisoner, uses his circumstances to witness to the power of Christ, while John’s Gospel emphasizes the personal nature of discipleship. Jesus’ words to Peter remind us that our focus should not be on comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey, but rather on following Him wholeheartedly. Both readings highlight the importance of remaining faithful, even in challenging or uncertain situations.
In our daily lives, these readings call us to trust in God’s plan and to focus on our own path. Like Paul, we may face obstacles or setbacks, but these do not have to hinder our ability to live out our faith. Like Peter, we may be tempted to look at others and wonder about their role in God’s plan, but Jesus reminds us that our primary concern should be to follow Him faithfully. Let us take inspiration from these examples and strive to live each day with trust in God’s will and a commitment to our own unique calling.