Daily Readings - Sat Jun 01 2019
Acts
23After spending some time in Antioch, Paul set out from there and traveled from place to place throughout the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples.24Meanwhile a Jew named Apollos, a native of Alexandria, came to Ephesus. He was a learned man, with a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures.25He had been instructed in the way of the Lord, and he spoke with great fervor and taught about Jesus accurately, though he knew only the baptism of John.26He began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they invited him to their home and explained to him the way of God more adequately.27When Apollos wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers encouraged him and wrote to the disciples there to welcome him. On arriving, he was a great help to those who by grace had believed.28For he vigorously refuted the Jews in public debate, proving from the Scriptures that Jesus was the Christ.
John
23In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.24Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.25"Though I have been speaking figuratively, a time is coming when I will no longer use this kind of language but will tell you plainly about my Father.26In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf.27No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.28I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father."
Sermon
The first reading from the Acts of the Apostles describes Paul’s missionary journey through Galatia and Phrygia, where he strengthens the disciples. It also introduces Apollos, a learned and zealous preacher who knows only the baptism of John. Priscilla and Aquila take him aside and explain the Way of the Lord more thoroughly, after which Apollos becomes a powerful advocate for the faith, publicly proving that Jesus is the Christ. This passage highlights the importance of community, mentorship, and the ongoing process of deepening one’s understanding of the faith.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus speaking to his disciples about the power of prayer in his name. He promises that the Father will grant their requests, and their joy will be complete. Jesus also hints at the transition that is about to occur—his departure from the world and return to the Father. This passage emphasizes the intimate relationship between the Father and the Son, and the disciples’ new relationship with the Father through Jesus. It invites us to trust in the power of prayer and to live in the joy and love that come from knowing we are beloved by God.
Both readings remind us that our faith is not static; it requires growth, guidance, and trust in God’s providence. Just as Apollos needed Priscilla and Aquila to deepen his understanding, we all need mentors and community to help us grow in faith. Similarly, just as Jesus teaches us to pray in his name, we are called to trust in the Father’s love and provision. Let us ask for what we need with confidence, knowing that our joy will be complete when we live in harmony with God’s will. May we, like Apollos, be zealous in sharing the Good News, and may we, like the disciples, find strength in prayer and in the knowledge of God’s love.