Daily Readings - Sat May 04 2019

¹In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.²So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables.³Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them⁴and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."⁵This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.⁶They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.⁷So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

John

Chapter 6

¹⁶When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake,¹⁷where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet joined them.¹⁸A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough.¹⁹When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water; and they were terrified.²⁰But he said to them, "It is I; don't be afraid."²¹Then they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts 6:1-7 illustrates the early Christian community addressing a practical challenge. The Greek widows were being overlooked in the distribution of resources, prompting the Apostles to seek a solution. Recognizing their primary role as preachers of the Word, they entrusted the community to choose seven spirit-filled men, who became the first deacons. This decision, guided by the Holy Spirit, ensured that all members were cared for, allowing the Apostles to focus on their ministry. This passage highlights the importance of organized leadership and the Holy Spirit's role in maintaining harmony and service within the community. The Gospel reading from John 6:16-21 presents a dramatic scene where Jesus walks on water to join His disciples during a storm. This miracle not only showcases Jesus's divine power but also His comforting presence in times of turmoil. The disciples, facing the fury of the sea, find immediate peace upon Jesus's arrival, as the boat reaches its destination. This narrative emphasizes faith and trust in God's providence, especially when we face life's challenges. These readings connect through the theme of divine guidance and trust. In Acts, the Holy Spirit directs the community to resolve a social issue through the appointment of deacons. In John, Jesus's presence brings calm to His disciples, reminding us of His ever-present help. Both stories encourage us to trust in God's plan and to serve others selflessly. In our daily lives, we can apply these lessons by seeking the Holy Spirit's guidance in our decisions and by being instruments of peace and service to those around us. Let us reflect on how we can trust in God's providence and serve others with love, just as the early church and Jesus have shown us.