Daily Readings - Thu May 12 2022
Acts
13From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where John left them to return to Jerusalem.14From Perga they went on to Pisidian Antioch. On the Sabbath they entered the synagogue and sat down.15After the reading from the Law and the Prophets, the synagogue rulers sent word to them, saying, "Brothers, if you have a message of encouragement for the people, please speak."16Standing up, Paul motioned with his hand and said: "Men of Israel and you Gentiles who worship God, listen to me!17The God of the people of Israel chose our fathers; he made the people prosper during their stay in Egypt, with mighty power he led them out of that country,18he endured their conduct for about forty years in the desert,19he overthrew seven nations in Canaan and gave their land to his people as their inheritance.20All this took about 450 years.21"After this, God gave them judges until the time of Samuel the prophet. Then the people asked for a king, and he gave them Saul son of Kish, of the tribe of Benjamin, who ruled forty years.22After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'23"From this man's descendants God has brought to Israel the Savior Jesus, as he promised.24Before the coming of Jesus, John preached repentance and baptism to all the people of Israel.25As John was completing his work, he said: 'Who do you think I am? I am not that one. No, but he is coming after me, whose sandals I am not worthy to untie.'
John
16I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him.17Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.18"I am not referring to all of you; I know those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: 'He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.'19"I am telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am He.20I tell you the truth, whoever accepts anyone I send accepts me; and whoever accepts me accepts the one who sent me."
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through two significant passages that illuminate the tapestry of God's plan and the essence of servant leadership. The first reading from Acts 13:13-25 captures Paul's sermon in Antioch, where he recounts the history of Israel, tracing God's faithfulness from the Exodus to the kings, culminating in Jesus. This historical narrative serves as a foundation for understanding God's enduring plan and the fulfillment of His promises through Christ. The second reading from John 13:16-20 shifts focus to Jesus during the Last Supper, where He emphasizes humility and the fulfillment of Scripture through betrayal, underscoring the disciples' role in continuing His mission.
Both readings intertwine themes of divine plan and leadership. Paul's sermon highlights God's faithfulness and the progression of His plan through history, while John's passage emphasizes Jesus' humility and the fulfillment of Scripture. Together, they remind us that our roles as followers are rooted in humility and trust in God's providence.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to embrace humility and trust in God's plan. Just as Paul and the disciples were called to serve with faithfulness, we too are summoned to live with humility and trust, knowing that God's plan unfolds in His time. Let us reflect on our own call to service and faith, trusting in God's providence as we navigate life's challenges.