Daily Readings - Sat Jun 07 2025
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
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of perseverance, trust in God's plan, and the importance of staying focused on our own calling as followers of Christ. In the first reading from Acts, we see Paul, though imprisoned in Rome, continuing to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. Despite the chains that bind him, he remains free in spirit, using every opportunity to share the message of salvation. This passage reminds us that our circumstances do not define our ability to serve God; even in confinement, Paul’s heart remains open to all who seek truth.
In the Gospel, we encounter a moment of tender yet profound teaching from Jesus. When Peter asks about the fate of the beloved disciple, Jesus responds with a message that transcends curiosity about others. He tells Peter, "What about him? You follow me." This exchange underscores the importance of focusing on our own relationship with Christ rather than comparing ourselves to others or worrying about their journey. Jesus’ words are a gentle reminder that each of us has a unique role to play in His plan, and our energy should be directed toward following Him faithfully.
These readings together teach us about the balance between perseverance and trust. Like Paul, we are called to remain steadfast in our mission, even when faced with obstacles. And like Peter, we are invited to let go of distractions and keep our eyes fixed on Christ. In our daily lives, this means embracing our own challenges with courage and trusting that God is at work in ways we may not fully understand. Let us strive to follow Christ with the same dedication as Paul and the same humility as Peter, knowing that our ultimate purpose is to serve Him and share His love with the world.