Daily Catholic Mass Readings for June 3, 2017
First Reading: Acts 28.16-20, 30-31
16When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.17Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans.18They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death.19But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar--not that I had any charge to bring against my own people.20For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."30For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him.31Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
Psalm 11
1In the LORD I take refuge. How then can you say to me: "Flee like a bird to your mountain.2For look, the wicked bend their bows; they set their arrows against the strings to shoot from the shadows at the upright in heart.3When the foundations are being destroyed, what can the righteous do?"4The LORD is in his holy temple; the LORD is on his heavenly throne. He observes the sons of men; his eyes examine them.5The LORD examines the righteous, but the wicked and those who love violence his soul hates.6On the wicked he will rain fiery coals and burning sulfur; a scorching wind will be their lot.7For the LORD is righteous, he loves justice; upright men will see his face.
Gospel: John 21.20-25
20Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?")21When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?"22Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me."23Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"24This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.25Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that guide us in our walk with God. The first reading from Acts describes Paul's time under house arrest in Rome. Despite his confinement, Paul continues to preach the Gospel, demonstrating unwavering dedication to his faith. He explains to the Jewish leaders that his imprisonment is due to the hope of Israel, yet he remains steadfast in his mission, teaching without hindrance for two years. This shows us that even in adversity, our commitment to spreading God's word should never waver.
The Gospel from John presents a different yet complementary lesson. Peter's curiosity about John's fate prompts Jesus to remind him that each person has their own role in God's plan. Jesus tells Peter not to be distracted by others' journeys but to focus on following Him. This teaching emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's unique plan for each of us, avoiding comparisons or distractions, and staying dedicated to our own path.
These readings together teach us valuable lessons for our daily lives. Like Paul, we should remain faithful and continue to serve God, even when faced with challenges. Like Peter, we must trust in God's plan and focus on our own journey without being sidetracked by others. Let us embrace these teachings, trusting in God's will, staying focused on our mission, and serving Him with perseverance. May we find strength in His plan and continue to walk faithfully in our own paths.