Daily Readings - Sat Jun 08 2019
Acts
16When we got to Rome, Paul was allowed to live by himself, with a soldier to guard him.17Three days later he called together the leaders of the Jews. When they had assembled, Paul said to them: "My brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or against the customs of our ancestors, I was arrested in Jerusalem and handed over to the Romans.18They examined me and wanted to release me, because I was not guilty of any crime deserving death.19But when the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar--not that I had any charge to bring against my own people.20For this reason I have asked to see you and talk with you. It is because of the hope of Israel that I am bound with this chain."30For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him.31Boldly and without hindrance he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ.
John
20Peter turned and saw that the disciple whom Jesus loved was following them. (This was the one who had leaned back against Jesus at the supper and had said, "Lord, who is going to betray you?")21When Peter saw him, he asked, "Lord, what about him?"22Jesus answered, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me."23Because of this, the rumor spread among the brothers that this disciple would not die. But Jesus did not say that he would not die; he only said, "If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you?"24This is the disciple who testifies to these things and who wrote them down. We know that his testimony is true.25Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons on trust and focus in our walk with God. The First Reading from Acts describes Paul's house arrest in Rome, where despite his confinement, he continues to preach the Gospel with unwavering dedication. This highlights Paul's unshakable trust in God's plan and his commitment to his mission, even in the face of adversity. The Gospel from John presents a conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of each disciple following their unique path without comparing themselves to others. This teaches us to focus on our own journey with Jesus, trusting in His plan for us.
The context of these readings is significant. Paul, in Rome, is at the heart of the empire, symbolizing the spread of Christianity into the world's center. His perseverance under house arrest underscores the early Church's resilience. In John's Gospel, the post-resurrection setting reminds us that our roles as disciples are defined by trust and obedience. Both readings encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, whether in challenging circumstances or in understanding our specific calling.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded to focus on our own responsibilities and trust in God's plan. Like Paul, we should remain dedicated to our mission, even when faced with obstacles. Like Peter, we should avoid distractions and comparisons, instead following Jesus faithfully. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan and focus on your own path. Let us embrace our unique roles, trusting that God's timing and purpose are perfect, and live each day with faith and dedication.