Daily Readings - Fri Jun 07 2019
Acts
27When two years had passed, Felix was succeeded by Porcius Festus, but because Felix wanted to grant a favor to the Jews, he left Paul in prison.
13A few days later King Agrippa and Bernice arrived at Caesarea to pay their respects to Festus.14Since they were spending many days there, Festus discussed Paul's case with the king. He said: "There is a man here whom Felix left as a prisoner.15When I went to Jerusalem, the chief priests and elders of the Jews brought charges against him and asked that he be condemned.16"I told them that it is not the Roman custom to hand over any man before he has faced his accusers and has had an opportunity to defend himself against their charges.17When they came here with me, I did not delay the case, but convened the court the next day and ordered the man to be brought in.18When his accusers got up to speak, they did not charge him with any of the crimes I had expected.19Instead, they had some points of dispute with him about their own religion and about a dead man named Jesus who Paul claimed was alive.20I was at a loss how to investigate such matters; so I asked if he would be willing to go to Jerusalem and stand trial there on these charges.21When Paul made his appeal to be held over for the Emperor's decision, I ordered him held until I could send him to Caesar."
John
15When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me more than these?Yes, Lord," he said, "you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Feed my lambs."16Again Jesus said, "Simon son of John, do you truly love me?" He answered, "Yes, Lord, you know that I love you." Jesus said, "Take care of my sheep."17The third time he said to him, "Simon son of John, do you love me?" Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, "Do you love me?" He said, "Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you."18Jesus said, "Feed my sheep. I tell you the truth, when you were younger you dressed yourself and went where you wanted; but when you are old you will stretch out your hands, and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go."19Jesus said this to indicate the kind of death by which Peter would glorify God. Then he said to him, "Follow me!"
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, leadership, and the challenges of following Christ. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s imprisonment and legal journey, highlighting his unwavering faith amidst adversity. Despite the weak accusations against him, Paul’s commitment to his mission never wavers, demonstrating his trust in God’s plan. The second reading from John’s Gospel presents a poignant moment where Jesus restores Peter, asking him three times if he loves Him. Each affirmation leads to a charge to “feed His sheep,” culminating in a prediction of Peter’s future martyrdom. This exchange underscores the essence of leadership rooted in love and self-sacrifice.
Both readings, though distinct, share a common theme of discipleship. Paul’s perseverance in the face of legal challenges and Peter’s acceptance of his mission illustrate the different yet complementary aspects of following Christ. Paul’s story emphasizes enduring trials with faith, while Peter’s narrative highlights the transformative power of love and the responsibility that comes with it. Together, they remind us that our faith is not merely a belief but a call to action, whether through steadfastness in adversity or through loving service to others.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace our own missions with courage and love. Like Paul, we may face unexpected challenges, but our faith should remain unshaken. Like Peter, we are called to love deeply and serve selflessly, even when the path is difficult. Let us draw inspiration from these examples, remembering that our faith journey is not about comfort but about fidelity to God’s will. May we, like Paul and Peter, embrace our crosses with grace and fulfill the mission entrusted to us, glorifying God in all we do.