Daily Readings - Wed Sep 25 2024
Proverbs
5Every word of God is fire-tested. He is a bronze shield to those who hope in him6Do not add anything to his words, lest you be reproved and be discovered to be a liar7Two things I have asked of you; do not deny them to me before I die8Remove, far from me, vanity and lying words. Give me neither begging, nor wealth. Apportion to me only the necessities of my life9lest perhaps, being filled, I might be enticed into denial, and say: ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or, being compelled by destitution, I might steal, and then perjure myself in the name of my God
Luke
1Then calling together the twelve Apostles, he gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases2And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the infirm3And he said to them: "You should take nothing for the journey, neither staff, nor traveling bag, nor bread, nor money; and you should not have two tunics4And into whatever house you shall enter, lodge there, and do not move away from there5And whoever will not have received you, upon departing from that city, shake off even the dust on your feet, as a testimony against them.6And going forth, they traveled around, through the towns, evangelizing and curing everywhere
Sermon
The first reading from Proverbs reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s Word and living a life of simplicity and integrity. The author asks for neither wealth nor poverty but only the necessities of life, fearing that excess might lead to denial of God or that poverty might drive one to sin. This reflects a deep understanding that true fulfillment comes not from material possessions but from a steadfast commitment to God’s truth. The reading also warns against adding to or distorting God’s Word, emphasizing the importance of humility and fidelity in our relationship with Him.
In the Gospel, Luke recounts how Jesus sent the Twelve Apostles out with no provisions—no staff, no bag, no extra clothes, no money. He instructed them to depend entirely on God’s providence and the hospitality of others. This mission was not just about preaching and healing but about trusting in God’s plan and living simply. The Apostles were to stay in one place until their work was done and, if rejected, to move on without resentment, shaking the dust from their feet as a witness. This teaches us about detachment, trust, and perseverance in our own mission to live as disciples.
Both readings call us to a life of faith and simplicity. Proverbs encourages us to avoid the temptations of wealth and poverty by seeking only what is necessary, while Luke’s Gospel challenges us to trust in God’s providence and live without attachment to material comforts. In our daily lives, this means letting go of the need for control and security, and instead, placing our trust in God’s plan. It invites us to live with gratitude for what we have, to share generously with others, and to remain faithful even when faced with rejection or uncertainty. May we, like the Apostles, embrace simplicity and trust in God’s Word, allowing it to guide us in all we do.