Daily Readings - Mon Sep 24 2018
Proverbs
27Do not prevent him who is able from doing good. When you are able, do good yourself too28Do not say to your friend: "Go away, and then return. Tomorrow I will give to you." When you are able to do so, give in the present29Do not undertake evil against your friend, even though he has trust in you30Do not contend against a man without cause, even though he has done no evil to you31Do not rival an unjust man, and do not imitate his ways32For everyone who ridicules is an abomination to the Lord, and his communication is for the simple33Destitution in the house of the impious is from the Lord. But the habitations of the just shall be blessed34He will ridicule those who ridicule, but he will bestow grace upon the mild
Luke
16Now no one, lighting a candle, covers it with a container, or sets it under a bed. Instead, he places it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light17For there is nothing secret, which will not be made clear, nor is there anything hidden, which will not be known and be brought into plain sight18Therefore, take care how you listen. For whoever has, it will be given to him; and whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken away from him.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the importance of living justly and being attentive to God’s word. The first reading from Proverbs encourages us to act with integrity, not withholding good from others and avoiding evil deeds. It emphasizes the wisdom of doing good when we can and not plotting against others, highlighting the consequences of our actions. The Gospel from Luke uses the metaphor of a candle to illustrate that our good deeds should be visible, and it stresses the importance of being receptive to God’s message, as our response affects the blessings we receive.
Both readings, while different in focus, share a common theme of responsibility—Proverbs focusing on outward actions and Luke on inward receptivity. Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature, offering practical advice for a virtuous life, while Luke’s passage is part of Jesus’ teachings, using a simple metaphor to convey deep spiritual truths. Together, they remind us that our actions and attentiveness have spiritual consequences.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to be mindful of our actions, ensuring we do good when possible and remain open to God’s word. By living justly and attentively, we align ourselves with God’s will, fostering spiritual growth and a life of integrity. The moral lesson here is clear: our actions and receptiveness shape our spiritual journey, guiding us toward a life of justice and grace.