Daily Readings - Tue Oct 31 2023
Romans
18For I consider that the sufferings of this time are not worthy to be compared with that future glory which shall be revealed in us19For the anticipation of the creature anticipates the revelation of the sons of God20For the creature was made subject to emptiness, not willingly, but for the sake of the One who made it subject, unto hope21For the creature itself shall also be delivered from the servitude of corruption, into the liberty of the glory of the sons of God22For we know that every creature groans inwardly, as if giving birth, even until now23and not only these, but also ourselves, since we hold the first-fruits of the Spirit. For we also groan within ourselves, anticipating our adoption as the sons of God, and the redemption of our body24For we have been saved by hope. But a hope which is seen is not hope. For when a man sees something, why would he hope25But since we hope for what we do not see, we wait with patience
Luke
18And so he said: "To what is the kingdom of God similar, and to what figure shall I compare it19It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and cast into his garden. And it grew, and it became a great tree, and the birds of the air rested in its branches.20And again, he said: "To what figure shall I compare the kingdom of God21It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of fine wheat flour, until it was entirely leavened.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about hope, growth, and the transformative power of God’s Kingdom. The first reading from Romans reminds us that our current struggles, though real, are overshadowed by the future glory that awaits us. Paul reassures us that creation itself is groaning in anticipation of redemption, and we, as believers, are called to wait patiently, trusting in the hope that sustains us. This hope is not in what we see, but in what we cannot yet see, a truth that strengthens our spirits amidst life’s challenges.
The Gospel parables from Luke offer vivid imagery of the Kingdom of God. The mustard seed, small yet mighty, and the leaven, quietly transformative, teach us that God’s work often begins inconspicuously but leads to profound impact. These parables encourage us to trust in the slow, steady growth of God’s grace in our lives and in the world. Just as the seed grows into a tree and the leaven permeates the dough, our faith, though it may start small, can influence and transform those around us.
Together, these readings invite us to embrace patience and trust in God’s plan. They remind us that our struggles are temporary and part of a larger narrative of redemption. As we navigate life’s challenges, we are called to nurture our faith, allowing it to grow and flourish. Just as the mustard seed and leaven bring life and nourishment, our trust in God can have a ripple effect, touching hearts and transforming lives. Let us hold fast to hope, knowing that even in the darkest moments, God is at work, guiding us toward a future filled with glory and grace.