Daily Readings - Tue May 20 2025

¹⁹And there came thither certain Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people, and, having stoned Paul, drew him out of the city, supposing he had been dead.²⁰Howbeit, as the disciples stood round about him, he rose up, and came into the city: and the next day he departed with Barnabas to Derbe.²¹And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to Lystra, and to Iconium, and Antioch,²²Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.²³And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.²⁴And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.²⁵And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into Attalia:²⁶And thence sailed to Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for the work which they fulfilled.²⁷And when they were come, and had gathered the church together, they rehearsed all that God had done with them, and how he had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.²⁸And there they abode long time with the disciples.

John

Chapter 14

²⁷Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.²⁸Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.²⁹And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe.³⁰Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.³¹But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, perseverance, and divine providence. The first reading from Acts 14:19-28 recounts Paul's missionary journey, where he faces severe persecution, including being stoned and left for dead. Yet, Paul's unwavering faith and trust in God's plan propel him to continue his mission, establishing churches and strengthening the early Christian communities. This passage highlights Paul's resilience and commitment to spreading the Gospel despite adversity. The Gospel reading from John 14:27-31a offers a moment of tender reassurance from Jesus to his disciples. As He prepares to leave them, Jesus imparts His peace, distinguishing it from the fleeting peace the world offers. He reassures them that His departure is in obedience to the Father, emphasizing His love and the divine plan. This passage invites us to trust in God's providence, especially during times of uncertainty or challenge. Both readings beautifully intertwine, illustrating how faith and trust in God can navigate us through life's trials. Paul's perseverance in the face of physical suffering mirrors the spiritual reassurance Jesus offers. They remind us that our peace and strength come from God, not the world. In our daily lives, when faced with challenges, we can draw on this divine peace, trusting that God's plan is at work. Let us embrace this peace, remain faithful, and continue our journey with hearts open to God's will.