Daily Readings - Thu Sep 13 2018
1 Corinthians
1Now concerning those things that are sacrificed to idols: we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but charity builds up2But if anyone considers himself to know anything, he does not yet know in the way that he ought to know3For if anyone loves God, he is known by him4But as to the foods that are immolated to idols, we know that an idol in the world is nothing, and that no one is God, except One5For although there are things that are called gods, whether in heaven or on earth, (if one even considers there to be many gods and many lords6yet we know that there is only one God, the Father, from whom all things are, and in whom we are, and one Lord Jesus Christ, through whom all things are, and by whom we are7But knowledge is not in everyone. For some persons, even now, with consent to an idol, eat what has been sacrificed to an idol. And their conscience, being infirm, becomes polluted11And should an infirm brother perish by your knowledge, even though Christ died for him12So when you sin in this way against the brothers, and you harm their weakened conscience, then you sin against Christ13Because of this, if food leads my brother to sin, I will never eat meat, lest I lead my brother to sin
Luke
27But I say to you who are listening: Love your enemies. Do good to those who hate you28Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who slander you29And to him who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your coat, do not withhold even your tunic30But distribute to all who ask of you. And do not ask again of him who takes away what is yours31And exactly as you would want people to treat you, treat them also the same32And if you love those who love you, what credit is due to you? For even sinners love those who love them33And if you will do good to those who do good to you, what credit is due to you? Indeed, even sinners behave this way34And if you will loan to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is due to you? For even sinners lend to sinners, in order to receive the same in return35So truly, love your enemies. Do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return. And then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he himself is kind to the ungrateful and to the wicked36Therefore, be merciful, just as your Father is also merciful37Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven38Give, and it will be given to you: a good measure, pressed down and shaken together and overflowing, they will place upon your lap. Certainly, the same measure that you use to measure out, will be used to measure back to you again.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound teachings that guide us on the path of love and humility. The first reading from 1 Corinthians reminds us that while knowledge is valuable, it is love that truly builds up the community. Paul addresses the issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols, urging believers to consider the impact of their actions on others, especially those with weaker faith. He emphasizes that our knowledge should not lead others into sin, but rather, we should act with charity and care for one another.
The Gospel from Luke presents Jesus' teachings on radical love and mercy. He calls us to love our enemies, turn the other cheek, and live by the Golden Rule. Jesus sets a high standard, distinguishing His followers by their ability to go beyond the world's expectations, showing mercy and forgiveness just as God does. This teaching challenges us to move beyond self-interest and embrace a life of selflessness and compassion.
Both readings highlight the importance of considering others in our actions and decisions. In Corinthians, it's about not offending weaker brothers, while in Luke, it's about loving those who may not return our love. Together, they remind us that our faith is not just about knowledge, but about living out God's love in our daily lives. The moral lesson is clear: love and mercy should guide our actions, reflecting God's love even when it's challenging. Let us strive to live in humility and selflessness, mindful of how our choices affect others, and embody the radical love that Jesus taught.