Daily Readings - Mon Nov 13 2017
First Reading - Wisdom 1.1-7
Wisdom
1Love justice, you who judge the land. Think of the Lord in goodness and seek him in simplicity of heart2For he is found by those who do not test him, yet he reveals himself to those who have faith in him3For perverse thoughts separate from God. But his virtue, when it is tested, corrects the foolish4For wisdom will not enter into a malicious soul, nor dwell in a body subdued by sin5For the holy spirit of instruction will flee from falsehood, and he will withdraw himself from thoughts that are without understanding, and he will not be reached when iniquity overcomes6For the spirit of wisdom is benevolent, and will not release the evil speaker from his talk, because God is a witness of his temperament, and a true examiner of his heart, and an auditor of his words7For the spirit of the Lord has filled the world, and he who contains all things, retains knowledge of every voice
Gospel - Luke 17.1-6
Luke
1And he said to his disciples: "It is impossible for scandals not to occur. But woe to him through whom they come2It would be better for him if a millstone were placed around his neck and he were thrown into the sea, than to lead astray one of these little ones3Be attentive to yourselves. If your brother has sinned against you, correct him. And if he has repented, forgive him4And if he has sinned against you seven times a day, and seven times a day has turned back to you, saying, ‘I am sorry,’ then forgive him.5And the Apostles said to the Lord, "Increase our faith.6But the Lord said: "If you have faith like a grain of mustard seed, you may say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted, and be transplanted into the sea.’ And it would obey you
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the essence of wisdom, justice, and the power of faith. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us to love justice and seek the Lord with a simple heart. It warns that wisdom cannot dwell in a soul dominated by malice or sin, emphasizing the importance of purity and sincerity in our relationship with God. The Gospel from Luke, on the other hand, highlights the importance of forgiveness and faith. Jesus teaches His disciples to correct and forgive one another, even multiple times a day, illustrating the boundless mercy of God. The Apostles, recognizing the challenge of such teachings, ask for increased faith, to which Jesus responds by illustrating the immense power of even the smallest amount of faith.
The connection between these readings lies in their call to trust in God's wisdom and live virtuously. Wisdom is not just knowledge but a way of life that seeks justice and goodness. Similarly, faith is not merely belief but a trust that empowers us to overcome life's challenges. Jesus' teachings on forgiveness remind us that our faith must be active, leading us to reconcile with others and trust in God's providence.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to cultivate wisdom by living justly and seeking God with sincerity. They remind us to practice forgiveness generously, as God forgives us. Let us trust in the power of our faith, no matter how small, knowing it can move mountains. May we strive to live with hearts open to God's wisdom and guided by the faith that transforms our lives and the world around us.