Daily Readings - Fri Jun 03 2022
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 devotion. The first reading from Acts describes Paul’s imprisonment and the discussions surrounding his case, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his faith despite uncertainty. The Gospel from John presents a poignant moment where Jesus, after His resurrection, restores Peter’s role as a leader, charging him to care for His flock, symbolizing the trust placed in him.
These passages are set against the backdrop of significant events in the early Christian Church. Paul’s imprisonment underscores the political and religious tensions of the time, while Peter’s encounter with Jesus occurs after the resurrection, emphasizing the restoration of his leadership role. Both narratives illustrate the theme of trust in divine providence, even amidst challenging circumstances.
The readings relate through their emphasis on trust and leadership. Paul’s faith in God’s plan despite imprisonment, and Peter’s acceptance of his mission to care for others, teach us about trusting in God’s guidance and embracing our roles with love and humility. In our daily lives, we are called to lead with compassion and trust, whether in our families, communities, or workplaces, just as Peter was called to tend to Christ’s flock.
As we reflect on these readings, let us consider how we can embody trust and leadership in our own lives. May we, like Paul, remain steadfast in our faith, and like Peter, embrace our responsibilities with love and humility, following Christ’s example.