Daily Readings - Wed Oct 12 2022
Galatians
18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law19Now the works of the flesh are manifest; they are: fornication, lust, homosexuality, self-indulgence20the serving of idols, drug use, hostility, contentiousness, jealousy, wrath, quarrels, dissensions, divisions21envy, murder, inebriation, carousing, and similar things. About these things, I continue to preach to you, as I have preached to you: that those who act in this way shall not obtain the kingdom of God22But the fruit of the Spirit is charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, forbearance23meekness, faith, modesty, abstinence, chastity. There is no law against such things24For those who are Christ’s have crucified their flesh, along with its vices and desires25If we live by the Spirit, we should also walk by the Spirit
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 are presented with two powerful messages that challenge us to reflect on the authenticity of our faith. The first reading from Galatians contrasts the works of the flesh with the fruits of the Spirit, emphasizing the transformative power of living a Spirit-led life. The second reading from Luke depicts Jesus criticizing the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, highlighting the disparity between their outward piety and inward neglect of justice and love.
The context of Galatians is Paul addressing a community grappling with the role of the law versus the Spirit. He urges them to embrace the freedom found in the Spirit, which cultivates virtues like charity and patience. In Luke, Jesus confronts the Pharisees during a time when their strict adherence to the law often masked inner hypocrisy. Both readings underscore the theme of genuine faith, where true transformation comes from within rather than external observances.
These readings relate by emphasizing the importance of sincerity in our spiritual lives. Galatians focuses on internal transformation through the Spirit, while Luke's Gospel exposes the emptiness of outward religiosity without inner change. Together, they remind us to examine our motivations and actions, ensuring our faith is not merely superficial but deeply rooted in love and humility.
In daily life, this means we should focus on cultivating the fruits of the Spirit—such as kindness and patience—rather than seeking recognition through outward displays of piety. We are called to live authentically, allowing the Spirit to guide our actions and attitudes. The moral lesson here is clear: true faith is about inner transformation and sincere living, not external appearances. Let us strive to bear the fruits of the Spirit, living lives of love, humility, and genuine devotion.