Daily Readings - Sun Nov 13 2022
Malachi
1For, behold, the day will arrive, kindled like a furnace, and all the arrogant and all those who act impiously will be stubble. And the approaching day will inflame them, says the Lord of hosts; it will leave behind for them neither root, nor sprout2But unto you, who fear my name, the Sun of justice will arise, and health will be in his wings. And you will go forth and leap like the calves of the herd
2 Thessalonians
7For you yourselves know the manner in which you ought to imitate us. For we were not disorderly among you8Nor did we eat bread from anyone for free, but rather, we worked night and day, in hardship and weariness, so as not to be burdensome to you9It was not as if we had no authority, but this was so that we might present ourselves as an example to you, in order to imitate us10Then, too, while we were with you, we insisted on this to you: that if anyone was not willing to work, neither should he eat11For we have heard that there are some among you who act disruptively, not working at all, but eagerly meddling12Now we charge those who act in this way, and we beg them in the Lord Jesus Christ, that they work in silence and eat their own bread
Luke
5And when some of them were saying, about the temple, that it was adorned with excellent stones and gifts, he said6"These things that you see, the days will arrive when there will not be left behind stone upon stone, which is not thrown down.7Then they questioned him, saying: "Teacher, when will these things be? And what will be the sign when these things will happen?8And he said: "Be cautious, lest you be seduced. For many will come in my name, saying: ‘For I am he,’ and, ‘The time has drawn near.’ And so, do not choose to go after them9And when you will have heard of battles and seditions, do not be terrified. These things must happen first. But the end is not so soon.10Then he said to them: "People will rise up against people, and kingdom against kingdom11And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and pestilences, and famines, and terrors from heaven; and there will be great signs12But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, handing you over to synagogues and into custody, dragging you before kings and governors, because of my name13And this will be an opportunity for you to give testimony14Therefore, set this in your hearts: that you should not consider in advance how you might respond15For I will give to you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries will not be able to resist or contradict16And you will be handed over by your parents, and brothers, and relatives, and friends. And they will bring about the death of some of you17And you will be hated by all because of my name18And yet, not a hair of your head will perish19By your patience, you shall possess your souls
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of judgment, responsibility, and trust in God's providence. In Malachi, we hear of the Day of the Lord, a time of purification where the arrogant will face judgment, while the righteous will find healing and joy. This passage reminds us of the ultimate judgment and the hope it brings to those who remain faithful. In 2 Thessalonians, Paul emphasizes the importance of diligent work and not being a burden to others, encouraging believers to lead responsible lives as they await the Lord's return. This reading underscores the value of hard work and self-sufficiency as part of our Christian calling.
In the Gospel, Luke presents Jesus speaking about the end times, warning against deception and persecution. Despite the challenges, Jesus assures us that God will provide the strength and wisdom needed to endure. This passage calls us to trust in God's plan and to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. Together, these readings remind us to live with purpose and responsibility, trusting that God will guide us through life's trials.
In our daily lives, these teachings encourage us to avoid complacency and idleness, embracing a life of purpose and diligence. They remind us to remain hopeful and faithful, knowing that God's justice will prevail. As we navigate life's challenges, let us trust in God's providence, living with integrity and perseverance, and find strength in His promise to guide us through all trials.