Daily Readings - Sat May 30 2020
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 narratives that invite us to reflect on faith, perseverance, and the mysterious ways of God’s plan. 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. The second reading from John’s Gospel presents a poignant exchange between Jesus and Peter, where Jesus hints at the unique role of the Beloved Disciple, sparking speculation about his destiny.
These passages, though distinct in context, share a common thread—the call to trust in God’s providence. Paul, imprisoned yet undeterred, exemplifies how faith can flourish even in adversity. His determination to spread the Good News underscores the resilience of the human spirit when rooted in divine purpose. Similarly, in John’s Gospel, Jesus’ enigmatic words to Peter remind us that each of us has a unique role in God’s plan, and our focus should be on following Him rather than comparing ourselves to others.
As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded to embrace our own calling with faith and trust. Like Paul, we may face challenges, but these should not hinder our commitment to our faith. Like Peter, we may wonder about others’ paths, but our true task is to follow Jesus wholeheartedly. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God’s plan, remain faithful, and focus on your own journey. Let us strive to live with such trust and perseverance, knowing that God’s plan unfolds in ways beyond our understanding, yet always for our good.