Daily Readings - Sat May 09 2020
Acts
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.
John
7If you really knew me, you would know my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him."8Philip said, "Lord, show us the Father and that will be enough for us."9Jesus answered: "Don't you know me, Philip, even after I have been among you such a long time? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'?10Don't you believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in me? The words I say to you are not just my own. Rather, it is the Father, living in me, who is doing his work.11Believe me when I say that I am in the Father and the Father is in me; or at least believe on the evidence of the miracles themselves.12I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.13And I will do whatever you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father.14You may ask me for anything in my name, and I will do it.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages of perseverance and divine connection. The first reading from Acts describes Paul and Barnabas's missionary journey, where they face rejection from the Jews but find eager listeners among the Gentiles. Despite persecution, they continue their mission with joy, trusting in God's plan. In the Gospel, Jesus assures His disciples that knowing Him means knowing the Father, emphasizing unity and the continuation of His work through them.
These passages remind us that spreading God's message often comes with challenges. Just as Paul and Barnabas faced rejection but persisted, we too can encounter obstacles in our lives. Yet, like the disciples, we are called to trust in God's presence within us. Jesus's promise that we will do greater works than He did underscores the idea that our actions, guided by faith, can have a profound impact.
In our daily lives, let us embrace this call to perseverance and trust. When faced with adversity, may we find the courage to continue sharing God's love, just as Paul and Barnabas did. Let us remember that our connection to God through Jesus empowers us to overcome any challenge, inspiring us to live with purpose and joy, knowing we are part of a greater divine plan.