Daily Readings - Fri Oct 20 2023
Romans
1So then, what shall we say that Abraham had achieved, who is our father according to the flesh2For if Abraham was justified by works, he would have glory, but not with God3For what does Scripture say? "Abram believed God, and it was reputed to him unto justice.4But for he who works, wages are not accounted according to grace, but according to debt5Yet truly, for he who does not work, but who believes in him who justifies the impious, his faith is reputed unto justice, according to the purpose of the grace of God6Similarly, David also declares the blessedness of a man, to whom God brings justice without works7"Blessed are they whose iniquities have been forgiven and whose sins have been covered8Blessed is the man to whom the Lord has not imputed sin.
Luke
1Then, as great crowds were standing so close that they were stepping on one another, he began to say to his disciples: "Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy2For there is nothing covered, which will not be revealed, nor anything hidden, which will not be known3For the things that you have spoken in darkness will be declared in the light. And what you have said in the ear in bedrooms will be proclaimed from the housetops4So I say to you, my friends: Do not be fearful of those who kill the body, and afterwards have no more that they can do5But I will reveal to you whom you should fear. Fear him who, after he will have killed, has the power to cast into Hell. So I say to you: Fear him6Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? And yet not one of these is forgotten in the sight of God7But even the very hairs of your head have all been numbered. Therefore, do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of faith, trust, and our relationship with God. In the first reading from Romans, St. Paul uses the example of Abraham to emphasize that justification comes not through works, but through faith. Abraham’s belief in God’s promise, even when it seemed impossible, was reckoned as righteousness. This teaching challenges us to recognize that our salvation is a gift of grace, not something we earn through our efforts. Similarly, the Psalm echoes this theme, celebrating the blessedness of those whose sins are forgiven and whose hearts are sincere.
In the Gospel, Jesus warns his disciples against hypocrisy, which he calls the “leaven of the Pharisees.” He reminds us that nothing is hidden that will not be revealed, and nothing is secret that will not come to light. This is both a call to authenticity and a reassurance of God’s providence. Jesus encourages us not to fear those who can harm the body, for true fear should be reserved for the One who can cast both soul and body into hell. Yet, even in this warning, there is comfort: God’s care for us is so intimate that even the hairs of our heads are numbered. We are worth more than many sparrows, and we are loved beyond measure.
These readings remind us to live with sincerity and trust in God’s love. Let us not be fooled by the illusion that our worth depends on outward appearances or achievements. True righteousness comes from faith, and true freedom comes from living in the light of God’s truth. As we go about our daily lives, may we cultivate a deep trust in God’s providence, knowing that we are beloved and that nothing escapes His notice. Let us strive to be people of integrity, living in the light, and finding strength in the assurance of God’s love.