AUGUST 28
A reading from the Acts of the Apostles
All those who
believed were equal and held everything in common.
The brethren devoted themselves to the apostles'
instruction and the communal life, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. A
reverent fear overtook them all, for many wonders and signs were performed by
the apostles.
They
shared all things in common; they would sell their property and goods, dividing
everything on the basis of each one's need. They went t(i the temple area
together every day, while in their homes they broke bread. With exultant and
sincere hearts they took their meals in common, praising God and winning the
approval of all the people. Day by day the Lord added to their number those who
were being saved.
..the
Word of the Lord.
Reading
II 2Tim 4:1-8
A reading from the second letter of Paul
to Timothy
Preach the word; stay with this
task whether convenient or inconvenient.
In
the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is coming to judge the living and
the dead, and by his appearing and his kingly power, I charge you to preach the
word, to stay with this task whether convenient or inconvenient--correcting,
reproving, appealing--constantly teaching and never losing patience. For the
time will come when people will not tolerate sound doctrine, but, following
their own desires, will surround themselves with teachers who tickle their
ears. They will stop listening to the truth and will wander off to fables. As
for you, be steady and self-possessed; put up with hardship, perform your work
as an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. . For my part I am already being
poured out like a libation. The time of my dissolution is near. I have fought
the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. From now on a
merited crown awaits me; on that Day the Lord, just judge that he is, will
award it to me--and not only to me but to all who have looked for his appearing
with eager longing.
..the
Word of the Lord.