Daily Readings - Thu May 15 2025
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 the missionary work of Paul and the profound teachings of Jesus, each offering insights into leadership, service, and trust. The first reading from Acts 13:13-25 recounts Paul's sermon in the synagogue, where he traces Israel's history and presents Jesus as the fulfillment of God's promise. This passage highlights Paul's role as a leader and preacher, spreading the Gospel beyond the Jewish community. The Gospel from John 13:16-20 captures Jesus teaching his disciples about true leadership through service and humility, while also predicting betrayal, emphasizing trust and divine plan.
Both readings intertwine themes of leadership and trust. Paul, as a missionary, embodies servant leadership, while Jesus teaches that true greatness lies in serving others. The prediction of betrayal in the Gospel reminds us that challenges and disappointments are part of the journey, yet trust in God's plan remains steadfast. These themes connect as they both call us to embrace our roles as servants and leaders, trusting in God's providence even amidst adversity.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to reflect on our own leadership and service. Whether in our communities, workplaces, or families, we are called to lead with humility and serve with love. Trusting in God's plan, even when faced with challenges, strengthens our faith. Let us strive to follow Jesus's example, serving others and trusting in His divine plan, ensuring our actions reflect our commitment to Him and His community.