Daily Readings - Sun May 12 2019
Acts
14From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down.43When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.44On the next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the word of the Lord.45When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and talked abusively against what Paul was saying.46Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: "We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.47For this is what the Lord has commanded us: "'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'"48When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.49The word of the Lord spread through the whole region.50But the Jews incited the God-fearing women of high standing and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them from their region.51So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.52And the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit.
Revelation
9After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands.14I answered, "Sir, you know."15And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore, "they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them.16Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat.17For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through the expansion of God's message, a vision of eternal unity, and the assurance of divine protection. The first reading from Acts illustrates the early church's missionary efforts, where Paul and Barnabas face rejection but find receptiveness among Gentiles, highlighting the universal call to salvation. The second reading from Revelation presents a glorious vision of a diverse multitude united in worship before God's throne, symbolizing the ultimate destiny of all believers. The Gospel from John assures us of Jesus' personal connection with His followers, promising eternal life and security in His care.
These readings connect by showcasing the progression of God's plan: from the initial spread of the Gospel beyond Jewish communities, to the future vision of heavenly unity, and the personal assurance of salvation. They remind us that our faith is part of a larger narrative, embracing all nations and tribes, and leading to eternal life with God.
In daily life, these readings encourage us to trust in God's expansive plan, to embrace diversity as part of His community, and to endure challenges with faith. The moral lesson is clear: God's salvation is universal, and through faith in Jesus, we are assured of eternal life, united in worship and service to Him. Let us live with this assurance, trusting in His care and embracing our role in His diverse and eternal family.