Daily Readings - Mon May 22 2023
Acts
1While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul took the road through the interior and arrived at Ephesus. There he found some disciples2and asked them, "Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?" They answered, "No, we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit."3So Paul asked, "Then what baptism did you receive?John's baptism," they replied.4Paul said, "John's baptism was a baptism of repentance. He told the people to believe in the one coming after him, that is, in Jesus."5On hearing this, they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus.6When Paul placed his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they spoke in tongues and prophesied.7There were about twelve men in all.8Paul entered the synagogue and spoke boldly there for three months, arguing persuasively about the kingdom of God.
John
29Then Jesus' disciples said, "Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech.30Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you came from God."31"You believe at last!" Jesus answered.32"But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.33"I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Acts describes Paul's encounter with disciples in Ephesus who, though baptized by John, had not yet received the Holy Spirit. Paul baptizes them in the name of Jesus, and through the laying on of hands, they experience the Spirit's descent, evidenced by speaking in tongues and prophesying. This episode underscores the transition from John's baptism of repentance to the fullness of the Holy Spirit through Jesus, highlighting the Spirit's empowering role in the early church.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus preparing His disciples for His departure. He acknowledges their growing faith but warns of impending scattering, reassuring them that He is never alone, as the Father is always with Him. Jesus offers these words to foster peace and confidence, reminding them that despite the world's challenges, He has already overcome them.
These readings connect through themes of the Holy Spirit and trust in God's presence. In Acts, the Spirit empowers believers for mission, while in John, Jesus assures His disciples of peace and victory. Together, they invite us to embrace the Spirit's empowerment and trust in God's providence, even amidst life's trials.
In our daily lives, let us remain open to the Holy Spirit's transformative power, seeking His guidance and strength. May we face challenges with the confidence that God is with us, granting us peace and overcoming the world's difficulties. This assurance calls us to live courageously, trusting in God's presence and promises.