Daily Readings - Sat Nov 12 2022

⁵Most beloved, you should act faithfully in whatever you do for the brothers, and those who are sojourners⁶they have given testimony to your charity in the sight of the Church. You would do well to lead these ones worthily to God⁷For they set out, on behalf of his name, accepting nothing from the unbelievers⁸Therefore, we must accept such as these, in order that we may cooperate with the truth

Luke

Chapter 18

¹Now he also told them a parable, that we should continually pray and not cease²saying: "There was a certain judge in a certain city, who did not fear God and did not respect man³But there was a certain widow in that city, and she went to him, saying, ‘Vindicate me from my adversary.⁴And he refused to do so for a long time. But afterwards, he said within himself: ‘Even though I do not fear God, nor respect man⁵yet because this widow is pestering me, I will vindicate her, lest by returning, she may, in the end, wear me out.’ ⁶Then the Lord said: "Listen to what the unjust judge said⁷So then, will not God grant the vindication of his elect, who cry out to him day and night? Or will he continue to endure them⁸I tell you that he will quickly bring vindication to them. Yet truly, when the Son of man returns, do you think that he will find faith on earth?

Sermon

In today's readings, we explore themes of faith, persistence, and trust in God. The first reading from 3 John emphasizes the importance of actively supporting those who serve in God's name. It highlights the early Christian community's reliance on charity and cooperation, urging us to assist missionaries without seeking help from unbelievers. This passage underscores the necessity of living out our faith through tangible actions, reflecting our commitment to God's truth. The Gospel from Luke presents the parable of the persistent widow, teaching us about the power of relentless prayer. The widow's determination moves an unjust judge to act, illustrating that if even an unrighteous authority can grant justice, how much more will our righteous God respond to our petitions. This parable encourages us to maintain faith and persistence in our prayers, trusting in God's timing and justice. Connecting these readings, we see a common thread of faith in action. 3 John calls us to active support of God's work, while Luke's parable inspires persistent prayer. Together, they remind us to trust in God's providence and live out our faith through both deeds and devotion. As we navigate our daily lives, may we embody this faith, trusting that our persistent prayers and selfless actions will bear fruit, reflecting God's love and justice in the world.