Daily Readings - Thu Sep 19 2019
1 Timothy
12Let no one despise your youth, but be an example among the faithful in word, in behavior, in charity, in faith, in chastity13Until I arrive, attend to reading, to exhortation, and to doctrine14Do not be willing to neglect the grace that is within you, which was given to you through prophecy, with the imposition of the hands of the priesthood15Meditate on these things, so that your progress may be manifest to all16Pay attention to yourself and to doctrine. Pursue these things. For in doing so, you will save both yourself and those who listen to you
Luke
36Then certain Pharisees petitioned him, so that they might eat with him. And he went into the house of the Pharisee, and he reclined at table37And behold, a woman who was in the city, a sinner, found out that he was reclining at table in the house of the Pharisee, so she brought an alabaster container of ointment38And standing behind him, beside his feet, she began to wash his feet with tears, and she wiped them with the hair of her head, and she kissed his feet, and she anointed them with ointment39Then the Pharisee, who had invited him, upon seeing this, spoke within himself, saying, "This man, if he were a prophet, would certainly know who and what kind of woman is this, who is touching him: that she is a sinner.40And in response, Jesus said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." So he said, "Speak, Teacher.41"A certain creditor had two debtors: one owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty42And since they did not have the ability to repay him, he forgave them both. So then, which of them loves him more?43In response, Simon said, "I suppose that it is he to whom he forgave the most." And he said to him, "You have judged correctly.44And turning to the woman, he said to Simon: "Do you see this woman? I entered into your house. You gave me no water for my feet. But she has washed my feet with tears, and has wiped them with her hair45You gave no kiss to me. But she, from the time that she entered, has not ceased to kiss my feet46You did not anoint my head with oil. But she has anointed my feet with ointment47Because of this, I tell you: many sins are forgiven her, because she has loved much. But he who is forgiven less, loves less.48Then he said to her, "Your sins are forgiven you.49And those who sat at table with him began to say within themselves, "Who is this, who even forgives sins?50Then he said to the woman: "Your faith has brought you salvation. Go in peace.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful lessons that guide us in our journey of faith. The first reading from 1 Timothy reminds us that our actions and demeanor should reflect our commitment to God. Timothy is urged to be an example in word, conduct, love, faith, and purity, emphasizing the importance of living out our beliefs. The second reading from Luke presents a vivid scene where a woman, known for her sins, anoints Jesus with ointment, demonstrating extraordinary love and faith. This act, often misunderstood by the Pharisees, is praised by Jesus, who sees the depth of her love and forgives her sins.
These readings, though from different contexts, share a common theme: the transformative power of faith and love. In 1 Timothy, Paul advises Timothy to embrace his role as a leader, using his gifts to inspire others. In Luke, the woman's actions show that true faith is not just about belief but about expressing love through humble service. Both readings highlight the importance of humility and genuine devotion, challenging us to reflect on how our actions align with our faith.
In our daily lives, these lessons encourage us to embody humility and love. Just as the woman anointed Jesus with ointment, we can serve others through selfless acts. Leadership, as Timothy is reminded, is not about authority but about serving with integrity and compassion. The moral here is clear: our faith should inspire us to love deeply and serve humbly, trusting in God's transformative power. Let us strive to live in such a way that our actions reflect the love and forgiveness we have received, allowing God to work through us in the lives of others.