Daily Readings - Fri May 21 2021
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 trust, faithfulness, and divine providence. The first reading from Acts recounts Paul's continued imprisonment under Governor Festus, who seeks to understand the charges against him. Festus, unsure of how to proceed, involves King Agrippa, highlighting the complexities of human judgment and the search for truth. This narrative reminds us that even in uncertainty, our faith must remain steadfast, trusting in God's plan.
The Gospel from John presents a poignant conversation between Jesus and Peter. After the resurrection, Jesus thrice asks Peter if he loves Him, each time charging him to "feed my sheep." This exchange is not just a test of Peter's devotion but a recommissioning, restoring him to a position of leadership after his earlier denial. It underscores the importance of trust and the call to serve others with love and humility.
These readings intertwine themes of trust and responsibility. Paul's situation illustrates trusting God amidst uncertainty, while Peter's dialogue with Jesus emphasizes the call to faithful service. In our lives, we are reminded to trust in God's providence, even when circumstances are unclear, and to embrace our roles in caring for one another. Let us strive to be faithful stewards, trusting in God's plan and lovingly serving those around us.