Daily Readings - Tue May 28 2019
Acts
22The crowd joined in the attack against Paul and Silas, and the magistrates ordered them to be stripped and beaten.23After they had been severely flogged, they were thrown into prison, and the jailer was commanded to guard them carefully.24Upon receiving such orders, he put them in the inner cell and fastened their feet in the stocks.25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them.26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose.27The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped.28But Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!"29The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas.30He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"31They replied, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved--you and your household."32Then they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all the others in his house.33At that hour of the night the jailer took them and washed their wounds; then immediately he and all his family were baptized.34The jailer brought them into his house and set a meal before them; he was filled with joy because he had come to believe in God--he and his whole family.
John
5"Now I am going to him who sent me, yet none of you asks me, 'Where are you going?'6Because I have said these things, you are filled with grief.7But I tell you the truth: It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send him to you.8When he comes, he will convict the world of guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment:9in regard to sin, because men do not believe in me;10in regard to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where you can see me no longer;11and in regard to judgment, because the prince of this world now stands condemned.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that illuminate the power of faith and the transformative presence of the Holy Spirit. The first reading from Acts recounts the trials of Paul and Silas, who, despite imprisonment and physical suffering, find strength in their devotion to God. Their hymns of praise during captivity exemplify unwavering faith, leading to a miraculous earthquake that frees them. This event not only liberates them physically but also opens the heart of the jailer, who, in a moment of desperation, seeks salvation. The jailer's conversion, along with his family, underscores the Holy Spirit's active role in bringing light to those in darkness.
The Gospel reading from John presents Jesus' discourse on the Holy Spirit, emphasizing His role as the Advocate. Jesus explains that His departure is necessary for the Spirit to come, who will convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment. This passage highlights the Spirit's mission to guide and transform, preparing the disciples for the challenges ahead. The connection between the two readings lies in the Holy Spirit's agency—whether in the courage of Paul and Silas or in the conviction of the jailer, the Spirit's power is evident.
Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, especially during trials. The Holy Spirit's presence in our lives can transform any situation, offering courage and guidance. As we navigate our own challenges, let us remain open to the Spirit's prompting, allowing Him to lead us to acts of faith and compassion. The moral lesson here is clear: faith and the Holy Spirit's transformative power can turn any darkness into light, offering hope and renewal. May we, like Paul, Silas, and the jailer, embrace the Spirit's work in our hearts, leading to a life of joy and service.