Daily Readings - Fri Jun 06 2025
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 leadership, faith, and trust in God's plan. The first reading from Acts describes Paul's imprisonment and his appeal to Caesar, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his faith despite the challenges he faces. The second reading from John's Gospel presents a poignant moment where Jesus restores Peter's role as a leader, charging him to care for His flock, symbolizing redemption and responsibility.
Both readings emphasize the importance of trust and responsibility. Paul's situation illustrates trust in God's providence, even in uncertain circumstances, while Peter's encounter with Jesus underscores the responsibility that comes with leadership and faith. These themes are interconnected, reminding us that our trust in God must be accompanied by active engagement in our duties and responsibilities.
In our daily lives, we are called to embody this same trust and responsibility. Whether in our personal or professional lives, we are invited to trust in God's plan and to take on the responsibilities He has entrusted to us. Just as Peter was given the task to feed Jesus' sheep, we too are called to care for one another and to serve with love and compassion. Let us embrace our roles with faith, trusting that God will guide us through life's challenges, and strive to be faithful stewards of the gifts and responsibilities He has given us.