Paul and Silas were arrested and beaten and imprisoned for telling the truth. It’s sad, but it happens. And because they were controversial prisoners, extra care was taken to keep them secure. They were placed in the center of the prison and chained so they couldn’t get out. But God had other plans and an earthquake broke open the cell doors and broke their chains. The guard who had been charged with their security knew he was in serious trouble if they got away so he was ready to kill himself for failing to do his duty and fulfill his orders. And even though the prisoners could have all just walked right out, Paul calls to the guard and tells him they were still there. He had not failed his mission and should not kill himself. The guard recognizes God’s hand in all this and realizes he is part of the problem and asks to be saved. They told him to believe in Jesus. Then the guard brought them out and took them home to feed them and tend to their wounds and he and his family were baptized and saved. The truth and what is right are above unjust laws and orders.

In the Gospel Jesus is preparing his disciples for his departure, but they are having a hard time with it. They are grieving the loss of their friend and teacher. Of course they will miss him. A lot. They want him to stay with them. But he says, the truth is, they will be better off that he is gone. He will go to prepare a place for us all, and he will send down the Holy Spirit to help the righteous on the right path, and condemn those who continue in sin and false ways.

The guard from the first reading was one who could have been among the condemned, but he recognized God and the truth and believed in Jesus and was saved. Those who continue to deny the truth and continue the ways of the world will not see the salvation.