Daily Readings - Fri May 29 2020
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 enduring call to follow Christ. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul’s imprisonment and his appeal to Caesar, highlighting his unwavering faith amidst uncertainty. The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter, where Peter’s love is tested, and he is entrusted with the care of Christ’s flock.
These passages, though distinct, share a common theme of trust and service. Paul’s situation illustrates the challenges of standing firm in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear. His determination to appeal to Caesar, despite the risks, shows his commitment to spreading the Gospel. Similarly, Peter’s interaction with Jesus underscores the depth of love and responsibility that comes with following Christ. Jesus’ threefold question to Peter, despite his earlier denial, is a moment of grace and reinstatement, charging Peter with the care of His sheep.
In our daily lives, these readings remind us to trust in God’s plan, even when faced with adversity. Like Paul, we may encounter trials that test our faith, but through perseverance, we can emerge stronger. Like Peter, we are called to love deeply and serve others, recognizing that our love for God is expressed through our actions. Let us embrace the challenges and opportunities of each day with faith, trusting that God’s plan will unfold, and that our service to others is a testament to our love for Him.