Daily Readings - Fri Sep 22 2023
1 Timothy
2But those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brothers, but rather serve them all the more because they are believing and beloved, participants of the same service. Teach and exhort these things3If anyone teaches otherwise, and does not consent to the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to that doctrine which is in accord with piety4then he is arrogant, knowing nothing, yet languishing amid the questions and quarrels of words. From these arise envy, contention, blasphemy, evil suspicions5the conflicts of men who have been corrupted in mind and deprived of truth, who consider profit to be piety6But piety with sufficiency is great gain7For we brought nothing into this world, and there is no doubt that we can take nothing away8But, having nourishment and some kind of covering, we should be content with these9For those who want to become rich fall into temptation and into the snare of the devil and into many useless and harmful desires, which submerge men in destruction and in perdition10For desire is the root of all evils. Some persons, hungering in this way, have strayed from the faith and have entangled themselves in many sorrows11But you, O man of God, flee from these things, and truly pursue justice, piety, faith, charity, patience, meekness12Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you have been called, and make a good profession of faith in the sight of many witnesses
Luke
1And it happened afterwards that he was making a journey through the cities and towns, preaching and evangelizing the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him2along with certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, who is called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had departed3and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many other women, who were ministering to him from their resources
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the importance of living a life rooted in faith, service, and contentment. The first reading from 1 Timothy addresses the early Christian community, urging believers to embrace their faith with humility and integrity. It warns against the dangers of greed and false teachings, emphasizing that true wealth lies in living a virtuous life. The Gospel from Luke illustrates this through the example of Jesus, who was supported in His ministry by devoted women, highlighting the value of selfless service and the importance of community in spreading the Good News.
Both readings encourage us to reflect on our priorities and values. In a world often driven by materialism, 1 Timothy reminds us that contentment with what we have is a form of greatness. Luke's account shows us that supporting one another in our spiritual journeys is essential. These teachings call us to reevaluate our relationship with wealth and to use our resources to serve others, just as the women supported Jesus.
As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, let us strive to live with gratitude and humility, recognizing that our true wealth lies in our relationship with God. May we embrace a life of service, using our talents and resources to support each other and further the Kingdom of God. In doing so, we embody the Christian values of stewardship and humility, trusting in God's provision and finding joy in serving others.