Daily Readings - Fri Oct 18 2024
2 Timothy
9For Demas has abandoned me, out of love for this age, and he has departed for Thessalonica10Crescens has gone to Galatia; Titus to Dalmatia11Luke alone is with me. Take Mark and bring him with you; for he is useful to me in the ministry12But Tychicus I have sent to Ephesus13When you return, bring with you the supplies that I left with Carpus at Troas, and the books, but especially the parchments14Alexander the coppersmith has shown me much evil; the Lord will repay him according to his works15And you should also avoid him; for he has strongly resisted our words16At my first defense, no one stood by me, but everyone abandoned me. May it not be counted against them17But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the preaching would be accomplished, and so that all the Gentiles would hear. And I was freed from the mouth of the lion
Luke
1Then, after these things, the Lord also designated another seventy-two. And he sent them in pairs before his face, into every city and place where he was to arrive2And he said to them: "Certainly the harvest is great, but the workers are few. Therefore, ask the Lord of the harvest to send workers into his harvest3Go forth. Behold, I send you out like lambs among wolves4Do not choose to carry a purse, nor provisions, nor shoes; and you shall greet no one along the way5Into whatever house you will have entered, first say, ‘Peace to this house.6And if a son of peace is there, your peace will rest upon him. But if not, it will return to you7And remain in the same house, eating and drinking the things that are with them. For the worker is worthy of his pay. Do not choose to pass from house to house8And into whatever city you have entered and they have received you, eat what they set before you9And cure the sick who are in that place, and proclaim to them, ‘The kingdom of God has drawn near to you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful reflections on trust, perseverance, and the call to serve. The first reading from 2 Timothy reveals Paul’s isolation and weariness as he faces the challenges of his missionary work. Despite being abandoned by many, including Demas, Paul remains steadfast in his faith, trusting in God’s providence. He asks for the companionship of Luke and the support of others, showing his human need for help, but ultimately relies on God’s strength. The reading reminds us that even in times of loneliness or adversity, God remains our constant companion and source of strength.
The Gospel from Luke presents a very different yet complementary scene. Jesus sends out 72 disciples ahead of him, instructing them to go forth like lambs among wolves, trusting in God’s providence rather than their own resources. They are to depend on the hospitality of others and to proclaim the nearness of the kingdom of God. This mission is not about self-sufficiency but about radical trust in God and openness to the people they encounter. The disciples are called to live simply, to serve generously, and to bring peace and healing to those they meet.
Both readings invite us to reflect on our own relationship with God and our response to the call to serve. Like Paul, we may face challenges and feel isolated at times, but we are reminded that God’s grace is sufficient. Like the disciples in Luke, we are called to step out in faith, trusting that God will provide what we need. These readings encourage us to live with courage, humility, and generosity, knowing that our efforts, though small, contribute to the greater work of God’s kingdom. Let us pray for the grace to persevere in faith, to trust in God’s plan, and to serve others with love and compassion.