Daily Readings - Mon Nov 04 2019
Romans
29For the gifts and the call of God are without regret30And just as you also, in times past, did not believe in God, but now you have obtained mercy because of their unbelief31so also have these now not believed, for your mercy, so that they might obtain mercy also32For God has enclosed everyone in unbelief, so that he may have mercy on everyone33Oh, the depths of the richness of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How incomprehensible are his judgments, and how unsearchable are his ways34For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor35Or who first gave to him, so that repayment would be owed36For from him, and through him, and in him are all things. To him is glory, for all eternity. Amen
Luke
12Then he also said to the one who had invited him: "When you prepare a lunch or dinner, do not choose to call your friends, or your brothers, or your relatives, or your wealthy neighbors, lest perhaps they might then invite you in return and repayment would made to you13But when you prepare a feast, call the poor, the disabled, the lame, and the blind14And you will be blessed because they do not have a way to repay you. So then, your recompense will be in the resurrection of the just.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are presented with profound reflections on God's mercy and our call to humility and generosity. The first reading from Romans reminds us that God's gifts and call are irrevocable, and His mercy is available to all. Paul emphasizes the mystery of God's ways, which are beyond human comprehension, yet He showers mercy on everyone. The Gospel from Luke offers a practical lesson: Jesus teaches that true generosity lies in inviting those who cannot repay us, promising that our reward will be in the resurrection. This teaching challenges us to move beyond reciprocal relationships and embrace selfless love.
Both readings highlight the theme of God's universal mercy and our response to it. Romans provides the theological foundation, explaining that God's mercy is not limited and is available to all people. Luke then gives us a practical application of this mercy, urging us to extend it to others, especially those on the margins. This connection between the readings encourages us to live out God's mercy in our daily interactions.
Applying these teachings to our lives, we are called to humility and trust in God's plan. We should approach others with generosity, not expecting anything in return, mirroring God's unconditional love. The moral lesson here is clear: true humility and trust in God's providence lead us to live selflessly, confident that our ultimate reward comes from Him. Let us embrace this call to mercy and generosity, reflecting God's love in all we do.