Daily Readings - Sat May 01 2021
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 two profound moments of revelation and mission. The first reading from Acts 13:44-52 recounts Paul and Barnabas's missionary journey, where they face rejection from the Jews but find eager acceptance among the Gentiles. This shift marks a pivotal moment in the early Church, highlighting God's plan to extend His message beyond the Jewish community. The second reading, John 14:7-14, captures a deeply intimate conversation where Jesus reveals His unity with the Father, assuring His disciples that knowing Him is knowing the Father. He promises that believers will continue His works, even greater ones, through faith.
The context of these readings is crucial. Paul's missionary work in Acts reflects the early Church's struggle and eventual expansion beyond its Jewish roots, driven by the Holy Spirit. In John's Gospel, Jesus comforts His disciples, emphasizing the unity between the Father and the Son, which is central to Christian belief. Both readings underscore themes of inclusion and divine presence.
These readings connect through their emphasis on expanding God's message and the deep connection between Jesus and the Father. Paul's outreach to Gentiles mirrors Jesus's promise of continued works through believers, highlighting the Church's role in spreading God's love. Both narratives encourage us to embrace our mission and trust in God's presence.
Applying this to daily life, we are called to be open to all people, reflecting God's inclusive love. Just as Paul reached out to Gentiles, we should engage with diverse communities. Additionally, trusting in God's unity with us, as Jesus is with the Father, empowers us to face challenges with faith, knowing we are part of something greater.
The moral lesson here is one of unity and mission. We are called to reflect God's love in our actions, embracing all people and trusting in His presence. By doing so, we continue Jesus's work, bringing light and salvation to the world.