Daily Readings - Tue Sep 24 2024
Proverbs
1Just as with the dividing of the waters, so also is the heart of the king in the hand of the Lord. He shall bend it whichever way he wills2Every way of a man seems right to himself. But the Lord weighs hearts3To do mercy and judgment is more pleasing to the Lord than sacrifices4To lift up the eyes is to enlarge the heart. The lamp of the impious is sin5The intentions of the robust continually bring forth abundance. But all the lazy are continually in need6Whoever gathers treasures by a lying tongue is vain and heartless. And he will stumble into the snares of death10The soul of the impious desires evil; he will not take pity on his neighbor11When the pestilent is punished, a little one will become wiser. And if he pursues what is wise, he will receive knowledge12The just thinks carefully about the house of the impious, so that he may draw the impious away from evil13Whoever blocks his ears to the outcry of the poor shall also cry out himself, and he will not be heeded
Luke
19Then his mother and brothers came to him; but they were not able to go to him because of the crowd20And it was reported to him, "Your mother and your brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you.21And in response, he said to them, "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter profound truths about the nature of the heart and the essence of spiritual kinship. The first reading from Proverbs reminds us that true wisdom lies not in outward appearances but in the inward virtues of mercy, justice, and righteousness. It warns against the dangers of sin and laziness, emphasizing that our actions have consequences. The second reading from Luke challenges us to redefine our understanding of family. Jesus teaches that his true family extends beyond blood ties to include all who hear and live according to God’s word.
The readings complement each other by highlighting the importance of aligning our hearts and actions with God’s will. Proverbs underscores the internal transformation necessary for living a virtuous life, while Luke emphasizes the communal aspect of faith, where obedience to God’s word unites believers as a spiritual family. Together, they remind us that faith is not just about rituals or blood ties but about living a life of integrity and love.
As we reflect on these readings, let us examine our own hearts and actions. Are we living in a way that reflects God’s mercy and justice? Are we part of a community that supports and encourages each other in living out our faith? Let us strive to be true members of God’s family by hearing and doing His word, creating a spiritual home where love and righteousness guide our lives.