Daily Readings - Fri May 30 2025
Acts
9One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.10For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city."11So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God.12While Gallio was proconsul of Achaia, the Jews made a united attack on Paul and brought him into court.13"This man," they charged, "is persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law."14Just as Paul was about to speak, Gallio said to the Jews, "If you Jews were making a complaint about some misdemeanor or serious crime, it would be reasonable for me to listen to you.15But since it involves questions about words and names and your own law--settle the matter yourselves. I will not be a judge of such things."16So he had them ejected from the court.17Then they all turned on Sosthenes the synagogue ruler and beat him in front of the court. But Gallio showed no concern whatever.18Paul stayed on in Corinth for some time. Then he left the brothers and sailed for Syria, accompanied by Priscilla and Aquila. Before he sailed, he had his hair cut off at Cenchrea because of a vow he had taken.
John
20I tell you the truth, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.21A woman giving birth to a child has pain because her time has come; but when her baby is born she forgets the anguish because of her joy that a child is born into the world.22So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy.23In that day you will no longer ask me anything. I tell you the truth, my Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us through times of challenge and offer hope. The first reading from Acts 18:9-18 describes Paul's missionary journey in Corinth, where he receives a vision of encouragement from the Lord. Despite facing opposition from the Jews, Paul perseveres, and with the indifference of the proconsul Gallio, he continues his ministry. The passage highlights Paul's unwavering commitment to spreading the Word of God, even amidst adversity. The Gospel from John 16:20-23a shifts our focus to Jesus' discourse to His disciples, where He prepares them for the sorrow they will face after His departure. He reassures them that their grief will transform into joy, much like a woman's pain in childbirth gives way to the joy of new life. Jesus also promises that their prayers to the Father in His name will be answered.
The context of these readings is crucial. Paul's experience in Corinth occurs during a time of significant growth and challenge for the early church, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and trust in God's presence. In John's Gospel, Jesus is preparing His disciples for the trials they will face in His absence, offering them hope and reassurance. Both readings share a common theme: the interplay between sorrow and joy, challenge and hope. Paul's courage in the face of opposition and Jesus' promise of joy and answered prayers remind us that our faith is not about avoiding difficulties but about trusting in God's plan and presence.
Applying these readings to our daily lives, we are reminded that we all face struggles and sorrows. Yet, just as Paul continued his mission despite obstacles and just as the disciples found joy after their sorrow, we too can trust that our challenges will lead to deeper joy and growth. When we face opposition or hardship, we can draw strength from Paul's example and Jesus' promise. We are called to remain steadfast in our faith, knowing that God is with us, even in the midst of trials. Let us approach life's challenges with courage and hope, trusting that our sorrow will be transformed into joy and that our prayers will be heard by the Father. In this way, we live out the assurance that God is always with us, guiding us through every moment.