Daily Readings - Thu Sep 16 2021
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
The readings today invite us to reflect on the transformative power of love, humility, and faith. In the first reading from 1 Timothy, St. Paul encourages Timothy to embrace his role as a leader in the faith, despite his youth, by living as an example of virtue and dedication. He reminds Timothy that the gifts he has received are not to be taken lightly but nurtured and shared with others. This passage emphasizes the importance of living out our faith with integrity and purpose, regardless of our age or position in life.
The Gospel from Luke presents a vivid contrast between the Pharisee’s judgment and the sinful woman’s act of love. The Pharisee, focused on appearances and rules, questions Jesus’ identity as a prophet because he allows a sinner to touch him. Meanwhile, the woman, overwhelmed by her own sinfulness, expresses her love and gratitude through a humble act of service—washing Jesus’ feet with her tears and anointing them with ointment. Jesus uses this moment to teach about the depth of God’s forgiveness and the connection between love and mercy. The woman’s sins are forgiven not because of her actions, but because her actions flowed from a heart full of love and repentance.
These readings remind us that our faith is not about outward appearances or following rules, but about living with humility, love, and openness to God’s grace. Like Timothy, we are called to be examples of faith in our own unique ways, using the gifts we’ve been given to serve others. Like the sinful woman, we are invited to approach God with sincerity and love, acknowledging our need for forgiveness and allowing His mercy to transform us. In our daily lives, let us strive to live with such humility and love, remembering that it is through these virtues that we grow closer to God and become instruments of His grace for others.