Daily Catholic Mass Readings for November 12, 2022
First Reading: 3 John 1.5-8
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
Psalm 112
1Alleluia. Of the return of Haggai and Zachariah. Blessed is the man who fears the Lord. He will prefer his commandments exceedingly2His offspring will be powerful on the earth. The generation of the upright will be blessed3Glory and wealth will be in his house, and his justice shall remain from age to age4For the upright, a light has risen up in the darkness. He is merciful and compassionate and just5Pleasing is the man who shows mercy and lends. He will order his words with judgment6For he will not be disturbed in eternity7The just one will be an everlasting memorial. He will not fear a report of disasters. His heart is prepared to hope in the Lord8His heart has been confirmed. He will not be disturbed, until he looks down upon his enemies9He has distributed, he has given to the poor. His justice shall remain from age to age. His horn shall be exalted in glory10The sinner will see and become angry. He will gnash his teeth and waste away. The desire of sinners will perish
Gospel: Luke 18.1-8
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.