Daily Readings - Sat May 27 2017

First Reading - Acts 18.23-28

²³And having spent some length of time there, he set out, and he walked in order through the region of Galatia and Phrygia, strengthening all the disciples²⁴Now a certain Jew named Apollo, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man who was powerful with the Scriptures, arrived at Ephesus²⁵He was learned in the Way of the Lord. And being fervent in spirit, he was speaking and teaching the things that are of Jesus, but knowing only the baptism of John²⁶And so, he began to act faithfully in the synagogue. And when Priscilla and Aquila had heard him, they took him aside and expounded the Way of the Lord to him more thoroughly²⁷Then, since he wanted to go to Achaia, the brothers wrote an exhortation to the disciples, so that they might accept him. And when he had arrived, he held many discussions with those who had believed²⁸For he was vehemently and publicly reproving the Jews, by revealing through the Scriptures that Jesus is the Christ

Gospel - John 16.23b-28

John

Chapter 16

²³And, in that day, you will not petition me for anything. Amen, amen, I say to you, if you ask the Father for anything in my name, he will give it to you²⁴Until now, you have not requested anything in my name. Ask, and you shall receive, so that your joy may be full²⁵I have spoken these things to you in proverbs. The hour is coming when I will no longer speak to you in proverbs; instead, I will announce to you plainly from the Father²⁶In that day, you shall ask in my name, and I do not say to you that I will ask the Father for you²⁷For the Father himself loves you, because you have loved me, and because you have believed that I went forth from God²⁸I went forth from the Father, and I have come into the world. Next I am leaving the world, and I am going to the Father.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Acts 18:23-28 introduces us to Apollos, a man of great eloquence and scriptural knowledge, yet limited in his understanding of the faith. It is through the mentorship of Priscilla and Aquila that Apollos's knowledge deepens, enabling him to minister more effectively. This story underscores the importance of community and mentorship in our spiritual growth, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey of faith. The Gospel reading from John 16:23b-28 shifts our focus to the intimate relationship we have with God through prayer. Jesus assures us that our prayers, offered in His name, will be heard by the Father. He promises that our joy will be complete as we experience the fruits of our prayers. This passage invites us to embrace prayer as a direct line of communication with God, trusting in His love and provision. Reflecting on these readings, we are called to a balanced approach in our spiritual lives. Just as Apollos needed guidance, we too benefit from the wisdom of others and the support of our faith community. Simultaneously, we are encouraged to cultivate a personal prayer life, trusting in God's loving response. Let us seek to grow both through the wisdom of others and through direct communion with God, knowing that our spiritual growth is both communal and deeply personal. In this balance, we find the joy and fulfillment that Jesus promises.