Daily Readings - Thu May 29 2025
Acts
1After these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;2And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla; (because that Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.3And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.4And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.5And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ.6And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles.7And he departed thence, and entered into a certain man's house, named Justus, one that worshipped God, whose house joined hard to the synagogue.8And Crispus, the chief ruler of the synagogue, believed on the Lord with all his house; and many of the Corinthians hearing believed, and were baptized.
John
16A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.17Then said some of his disciples among themselves, What is this that he saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me: and, Because I go to the Father?18They said therefore, What is this that he saith, A little while? we cannot tell what he saith.19Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said, A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me?20Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on trust and transformation in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 18:1-8 describes Paul's missionary work in Corinth. Despite facing opposition, Paul remains steadfast in his ministry, eventually transitioning his focus to the Gentiles. His perseverance amidst challenges exemplifies trust in God's plan. The second reading, John 16:16-20, captures a moment where Jesus prepares his disciples for his departure. He speaks of a time when they will not see him, but will see him again, reassuring them that their sorrow will turn to joy. This passage underscores the theme of trust and transformation through faith.
Both readings share a common thread of transition and trust. Paul's journey in Corinth and Jesus' Farewell Discourse both emphasize the importance of trusting God despite uncertainty. Just as Paul trusted God's guidance to minister to the Gentiles, the disciples were called to trust that their sorrow would become joy. This connection reminds us that our faith is not about avoiding challenges but navigating them with trust in God's providence.
In our daily lives, we often face transitions and uncertainties. These readings encourage us to embrace these moments with trust, knowing that God's plan unfolds even in difficult times. Just as Paul's ministry and the disciples' experience show, our trials can lead to deeper faith and unexpected joy. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan, and find joy in His presence, even amidst life's challenges.