Daily Readings - Thu Sep 07 2023
Colossians
9Then, too, from the day when we first heard it, we have not ceased praying for you and requesting that you be filled with the knowledge of his will, with all wisdom and spiritual understanding10so that you may walk in a manner worthy of God, being pleasing in all things, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God11being strengthened in every virtue, in accord with the power of his glory, with all patience and longsuffering, with joy12giving thanks to God the Father, who has made us worthy to have a share in the portion of the saints, in the light13For he has rescued us from the power of darkness, and he has transferred us into the kingdom of the Son of his love14in whom we have redemption through his blood, the remission of sins
Luke
1Now it happened that, when the crowds pressed toward him, so that they might hear the word of God, he was standing beside the lake of Genesaret2And he saw two boats standing beside the lake. But the fishermen had climbed down, and they were washing their nets3And so, climbing into one of the boats, which belonged to Simon, he asked him to draw back a little from the land. And sitting down, he taught the crowds from the boat4Then, when he had ceased speaking, he said to Simon, "Lead us into deep water, and release your nets for a catch.5And in response, Simon said to him: "Teacher, working throughout the night, we caught nothing. But on your word, I will release the net.6And when they had done this, they enclosed such a copious multitude of fish that their net was rupturing7And they signaled to their associates, who were in the other boat, so that they would come and help them. And they came and filled both boats, so that they were nearly submerged8But when Simon Peter had seen this, he fell down at the knees of Jesus, saying, "Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.9For astonishment had enveloped him, and all who were with him, at the catch of fish that they had taken10Now the same was true of James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were associates of Simon. And Jesus said to Simon: "Do not be afraid. From now on, you will be catching men.11And having led their boats to land, leaving behind everything, they followed him
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of spiritual growth, obedience, and the transformative power of faith. The first reading from Colossians is a heartfelt prayer where Paul expresses gratitude for the Colossians' faith and prays for their continued growth in wisdom and understanding. He emphasizes living a life worthy of God, bearing fruit through good works, and finding strength in patience and joy. This prayer underscores the importance of trusting in God's plan and the redemption offered through Jesus Christ.
The Gospel from Luke presents a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry as He calls Simon Peter and the other disciples. After a night of futile fishing, Jesus instructs Simon to cast his nets into deep water, resulting in an abundant catch. This miracle not only showcases Jesus' divine authority but also highlights Simon's obedience and humility. Recognizing his sinfulness, Simon humbly asks Jesus to depart, yet Jesus reassures him and invites him to follow, leading to a life of discipleship.
These readings remind us of the importance of trusting God's will, even when circumstances seem insurmountable. Like Simon, we are called to step out in faith, trusting that God's plan will lead us to places of abundance and purpose. The moral lesson here is clear: obedience and trust in God's guidance can lead to profound spiritual growth and a life of fulfillment. As we navigate our daily lives, let us seek to know God's will, trust in His providence, and be willing to follow His call wholeheartedly, just as the disciples did.