Daily Readings - Wed Oct 13 2021
Romans
1For this reason, O man, each one of you who judges is inexcusable. For by that which you judge another, you condemn yourself. For you do the same things that you judge2For we know that the judgment of God is in accord with truth against those who do such things3But, O man, when you judge those who do such things as you yourself also do, do you think that you will escape the judgment of God4Or do you despise the riches of his goodness and patience and forbearance? Do you not know that the kindness of God is calling you to repentance5But in accord with your hard and impenitent heart, you store up wrath for yourself, unto the day of wrath and of revelation by the just judgment of God6For he will render to each one according to his works7To those who, in accord with patient good works, seek glory and honor and incorruption, certainly, he will render eternal life8But to those who are contentious and who do not acquiesce to the truth, but instead trust in iniquity, he will render wrath and indignation9Tribulation and anguish are upon every soul of man that works evil: the Jew first, and also the Greek10But glory and honor and peace are for all who do what is good: the Jew first, and also the Greek11For there is no favoritism with God
Luke
42But woe to you, Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, but you ignore judgment and the charity of God. But these things you ought to have done, without omitting the others43Woe to you, Pharisees! For you love the first seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the marketplace44Woe to you! For you are like graves that are not noticeable, so that men walk over them without realizing it.45Then one of the experts in the law, in response, said to him, "Teacher, in saying these things, you bring an insult against us as well.46So he said: "And woe to you experts in the law! For you weigh men down with burdens which they are not able to bear, but you yourselves do not touch the weight with even one of your fingers
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about hypocrisy and the true nature of faith. The first reading from Romans reminds us that God’s judgment is fair and impartial. Paul warns against hypocrisy, urging us not to judge others for actions we ourselves commit. He emphasizes that God will reward those who do good and punish those who do evil, regardless of their background. This passage calls us to self-reflection, urging us to align our actions with our beliefs and avoid the trap of hypocrisy.
The Gospel from Luke complements this message as Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their focus on outward appearances rather than inner righteousness. He condemns their love for public recognition and their neglect of justice and love. When a lawyer objects, Jesus extends his criticism to them, highlighting their failure to alleviate the burdens they impose on others. This passage underscores the importance of living out our faith authentically, ensuring that our actions reflect our values without seeking praise.
Together, these readings remind us that true faith requires more than outward rituals; it demands justice, love, and humility. As we reflect on our own lives, let us ask ourselves: Do we practice what we preach? Are we guilty of hypocrisy? Let us strive to live with integrity, focusing on the substance of our faith rather than its appearance. May we embrace the call to live authentically, aligning our actions with our beliefs, and may we humbly serve others without seeking recognition.