Daily Readings - Thu May 21 2020
Acts
1After this, Paul left Athens and went to Corinth.2There he met a Jew named Aquila, a native of Pontus, who had recently come from Italy with his wife Priscilla, because Claudius had ordered all the Jews to leave Rome. Paul went to see them,3and because he was a tentmaker as they were, he stayed and worked with them.4Every Sabbath he reasoned in the synagogue, trying to persuade Jews and Greeks.5When Silas and Timothy came from Macedonia, Paul devoted himself exclusively to preaching, testifying to the Jews that Jesus was the Christ.6But when the Jews opposed Paul and became abusive, he shook out his clothes in protest and said to them, "Your blood be on your own heads! I am clear of my responsibility. From now on I will go to the Gentiles."7Then Paul left the synagogue and went next door to the house of Titius Justus, a worshiper of God.8Crispus, the synagogue ruler, and his entire household believed in the Lord; and many of the Corinthians who heard him believed and were baptized.
John
16"In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me."17Some of his disciples said to one another, "What does he mean by saying, 'In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,' and 'Because I am going to the Father'?"18They kept asking, "What does he mean by 'a little while'? We don't understand what he is saying."19Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, "Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, 'In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me'?20I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound moments of transition and trust in God's plan. The first reading from Acts 18:1-8 describes Paul's missionary journey in Corinth. Despite facing rejection from the Jewish community, Paul remains steadfast in his faith, continuing his ministry and converting many Gentiles. His perseverance in the face of adversity is a testament to his unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel. The second reading from John 16:16-20 captures a moment of confusion and sorrow among Jesus' disciples as He speaks about His impending departure. Jesus reassures them that their sorrow will be transformed into joy, a promise that resonates deeply with anyone who has experienced loss or uncertainty.
Both readings highlight the theme of transition and the promise of joy after sorrow. Paul's experience in Corinth reminds us that even in the face of rejection, God's work continues to flourish. Jesus' words to His disciples invite us to trust in His plan, even when the future seems unclear. These passages encourage us to embrace faith and perseverance, knowing that our struggles are not in vain.
As we reflect on these readings, let us consider how they apply to our own lives. When we face challenges or uncertainties, we are called to trust in God's timing and plan. Just as Paul found strength in his mission and the disciples would eventually understand Jesus' words, we too can find joy in the midst of adversity. Let us embrace the promise that our sorrow will be turned into joy, and let us continue to walk in faith, trusting that God is always with us.