Daily Readings - Tue Sep 25 2018
Proverbs
1Just as with the dividing of the waters, so also is the heart of the king in the hand of the Lord. He shall bend it whichever way he wills2Every way of a man seems right to himself. But the Lord weighs hearts3To do mercy and judgment is more pleasing to the Lord than sacrifices4To lift up the eyes is to enlarge the heart. The lamp of the impious is sin5The intentions of the robust continually bring forth abundance. But all the lazy are continually in need6Whoever gathers treasures by a lying tongue is vain and heartless. And he will stumble into the snares of death10The soul of the impious desires evil; he will not take pity on his neighbor11When the pestilent is punished, a little one will become wiser. And if he pursues what is wise, he will receive knowledge12The just thinks carefully about the house of the impious, so that he may draw the impious away from evil13Whoever blocks his ears to the outcry of the poor shall also cry out himself, and he will not be heeded
Luke
19Then his mother and brothers came to him; but they were not able to go to him because of the crowd20And it was reported to him, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.21And in response, he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of true wisdom, justice, and the bonds that unite us as children of God. In the first reading from Proverbs, we are reminded that true wisdom lies not in wealth or power, but in living a life of mercy, justice, and integrity. The passage warns against the dangers of greed, laziness, and sin, emphasizing that our actions have consequences. It also highlights the importance of discernment, urging us to think carefully about the choices we make and the company we keep. The just, we are told, will draw others away from evil, while those who turn a blind ear to the suffering of the poor will ultimately suffer themselves.
In the Gospel, Jesus expands our understanding of family and community. When his mother and brothers cannot reach him due to the crowd, Jesus responds by redefining who his true family is: those who hear the word of God and put it into practice. This teaching challenges us to see beyond biological ties and to recognize that our spiritual family is just as real. It calls us to live in a way that reflects God’s love and will, prioritizing faith and action over mere association or convenience.
Together, these readings remind us that our relationship with God is not just about words or rituals, but about how we live. True wisdom and justice are not abstract concepts but are lived out in our daily choices to love, to serve, and to stand up for what is right. Let us ask ourselves: Are we living in a way that reflects God’s will? Are we hearing and doing His word? May we strive to be part of that spiritual family that Jesus speaks of, united in faith, love, and a commitment to justice.