Daily Readings - Tue May 14 2024
Acts
15In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty)16and said, "Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus--17he was one of our number and shared in this ministry."20"For," said Peter, "it is written in the book of Psalms, "'May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it,' and, "'May another take his place of leadership.'21Therefore it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,22beginning from John's baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of his resurrection."23So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias.24Then they prayed, "Lord, you know everyone's heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen25to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs."26Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.
John
9"As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.10If you obey my commands, you will remain in my love, just as I have obeyed my Father's commands and remain in his love.11I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.12My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.13Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.14You are my friends if you do what I command.15I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master's business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you.16You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit--fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.17This is my command: Love each other.
Sermon
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the essence of community, love, and mission in our Christian journey. In the First Reading from Acts, the apostles, following Jesus’ ascension, address the vacancy left by Judas. They seek to maintain the integrity of their group, ensuring their number remains at twelve, a symbol of completeness. This act underscores the importance of unity and continuity in the face of loss. The Gospel from John complements this narrative, as Jesus, preparing His disciples for His departure, emphasizes the foundation of their mission: love. He calls them friends, sharing all He has received from the Father, and commissions them to bear lasting fruit through love.
The context of these readings is pivotal. The apostles, after the resurrection, are restoring their community to fulfill their mission effectively. Similarly, Jesus, in His final discourse, prepares His disciples to carry on His work, rooted in love. These passages highlight the interconnectedness of community and mission, showing that a united body is essential for spreading God’s message.
In our daily lives, these readings remind us to cherish and nurture unity within our communities. Just as the apostles sought to maintain their integrity, we must strive to keep our relationships grounded in love and mutual support. Jesus’ commandment to love one another is not merely a suggestion but the cornerstone of our Christian identity. As we go about our lives, we are called to bear fruit through acts of love and service, reflecting Jesus’ example. Let us embrace this mission with joy and fidelity, remembering that our actions speak volumes about our faith.