Daily Readings - Tue Oct 22 2019
Romans
12Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into this world, and through sin, death; so also death was transferred to all men, to all who have sinned13For even before the law, sin was in the world, but sin was not imputed while the law did not exist14Yet death reigned from Adam until Moses, even in those who have not sinned, in the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a figure of him who was to come15But the gift is not entirely like the offense. For though by the offense of one, many died, yet much more so, by the grace of one man, Jesus Christ, has the grace and gift of God abounded to many16And the sin through one is not entirely like the gift. For certainly, the judgment of one was unto condemnation, but the grace toward many offenses is unto justification17For though, by the one offense, death reigned through one, yet so much more so shall those who receive an abundance of grace, both of the gift and of justice, reign in life through the one Jesus Christ18Therefore, just as through the offense of one, all men fell under condemnation, so also through the justice of one, all men fall under justification unto life19For, just as through the disobedience of one man, many were established as sinners, so also through the obedience of one man, many shall be established as just20Now the law entered in such a way that offenses would abound. But where offenses were abundant, grace was superabundant21So then, just as sin has reigned unto death, so also may grace reign through justice unto eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord
Luke
35Let your waists be girded, and let lamps be burning in your hands36And let you yourselves be like men awaiting their lord, when he will return from the wedding; so that, when he arrives and knocks, they may open to him promptly37Blessed are those servants whom the Lord, when he returns, will find being vigilant. Amen I say to you, that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, while he, continuing on, will minister to them38And if he will return in the second watch, or if in the third watch, and if he will find them to be so: then blessed are those servants
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the profound interplay between sin, grace, and our relationship with God. In the first reading from Romans, St. Paul contrasts the legacy of Adam, through whom sin and death entered the world, with the gift of Christ, who brings justification and life. This passage reminds us that while sin has its consequences, God’s grace is far more abundant and transformative. The second reading from Luke’s Gospel calls us to vigilance and readiness, urging us to live as servants who are prepared to welcome the Lord at any moment. Together, these readings challenge us to embrace the gift of grace while living with purpose and watchfulness.
The context of today’s readings is deeply rooted in the theological themes of sin, redemption, and discipleship. In Romans, Paul is addressing the early Christian community, explaining how Christ’s obedience undoes the harm caused by Adam’s disobedience. This passage emphasizes the universal nature of sin and the even greater universality of God’s grace. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples about the importance of being prepared for his return, using the metaphor of servants waiting for their master. This parable emphasizes the need for faithfulness and attentiveness in our daily lives.
These readings are connected by their focus on the transformative power of God’s grace and the call to live with intentionality. While Romans highlights the contrast between sin and grace, Luke’s Gospel challenges us to live in a way that reflects our gratitude for that grace. The moral lesson here is clear: we are called to trust in God’s mercy while striving to live as faithful stewards of the gifts we have received. By staying vigilant and rooted in grace, we can face life’s challenges with hope and confidence.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, let us remember that God’s grace is always available to us, even in our struggles and shortcomings. Let us also embrace the call to live with purpose, knowing that our actions have consequences and that we are called to be ready to meet the Lord at any moment. May we trust in the abundance of God’s grace and strive to live as faithful servants, prepared to welcome him into our lives.