Tuesday of the Sixth Week of Easter
Today’s readings are pretty intense for significantly different reasons. On one hand, there is the persecution, imprisonment, and liberation of Paul and Silas. On the other hand, there is Christ’s departure and assurance to his disciples. Both attest to the power and presence of God in times of trouble and uncertainty.
The first reading, from the book of Acts, describes the liberation of Paul and Silas from imprisonment. After being beaten and humiliated by the authorities, Paul and Silas were imprisoned and chained. In the midst of worship, an earthquake intervened to liberate them from their bondage. I have always read this passage as a testament to God’s supernatural intercession. However, this time I was stuck by the fact that after being freed from their chains and after the doors had been flung open, Paul and Silas remained in their cell. Instead of running for daylight (which I would have done), they ministered to the soldier commanded to guard them. Even though they were free to leave, they stayed to preach the Gospel.
The second reading, from the gospel of John, describes Christ’s assurances to his disciples. Grieved that Christ would depart from them, He offers comfort by telling them of the Advocate he would send them. Even in his absence, he would be present. Now, the rest of the passage discusses sin and righteousness and condemnation. I must admit that I’m not typically comfortable with fire and brimstone. At the same time, I recognize that the things that make you uncomfortable are usually the things you need to hear. In particular, the Advocate will come to “convict the world.” It’s good to be challenged with the reality of God’s judgment, particularly when it reminds us to not judge ourselves.
The beauty of these passages revolves around the power of faith. While faith certainly sustained Paul and Silas in their persecution, faith also kept them in their cell when they could have ran for freedom. Faith also sustained the disciples through the crucifixion and death of Jesus. It also helped them to leave sin and condemnation in the hands of God, during their darkest times. Ultimately, faith is that which seeks the presence of God after the big events.
Today let us ponder in our hearts the faith that abides.
- Katherine Schmidt