Daily Readings - Thu Oct 31 2024
Ephesians
10Concerning the rest, brothers, be strengthened in the Lord, by the power of his virtue11Be clothed in the armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the treachery of the devil12For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against the directors of this world of darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in high places13Because of this, take up the armor of God, so that you may be able to withstand the evil day and remain perfect in all things14Therefore, stand firm, having been girded about your waist with truth, and having been clothed with the breastplate of justice15and having feet which have been shod by the preparation of the Gospel of peace16In all things, take up the shield of faith, with which you may be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the most wicked one17And take up the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit (which is the Word of God)18Through every kind of prayer and supplication, pray at all times in spirit, and so be vigilant with every kind of earnest supplication, for all the saints19and also for me, so that words may be given to me, as I open my mouth with faith to make known the mystery of the Gospel20in such a manner that I may dare to speak exactly as I ought to speak. For I act as an ambassador in chains for the Gospel
Luke
31On the same day, some of the Pharisees approached, saying to him: "Depart, and go away from here. For Herod wishes to kill you.32And he said to them: "Go and tell that fox: ‘Behold, I cast out demons and accomplish healings, today and tomorrow. And on the third day I reach the end.33Yet truly, it is necessary for me to walk today and tomorrow and the following day. For it does not fall to a prophet to perish beyond Jerusalem34Jerusalem, Jerusalem! You kill the prophets, and you stone those who are sent to you. Daily, I wanted to gather together your children, in the manner of a bird with her nest under her wings, but you were not willing35Behold, your house will be left desolate for you. But I say to you, that you shall not see me, until it happens that you say: ‘Blessed is he who has arrived in the name of the Lord.’
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Ephesians 6:10-20 invites us to don the armor of God, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual preparedness. This armor—comprising truth, righteousness, the Gospel, faith, salvation, and the Spirit—equips us to withstand the spiritual battles we face, not against flesh and blood, but against the forces of evil. The Apostle urges us to pray unceasingly for strength and for the courage to proclaim the Gospel boldly.
The Gospel from Luke 13:31-35 presents Jesus facing a threat from Herod, yet he remains undeterred in his mission. Jesus' response highlights his divine purpose, continuing his work of healing and casting out demons. His lament over Jerusalem reflects his sorrow over the city's rejection of the prophets and himself, illustrating the heart of a loving God who yearns to gather his children, only to be spurned. This passage underscores Jesus' unwavering commitment to his Father's will, even in the face of danger and rejection.
Both readings remind us to stand firm in our faith, trusting in God's providence amidst life's challenges. Just as Jesus faced opposition with courage, we too can face our struggles armed with the virtues of truth and righteousness. Let us apply this teaching by embracing our daily crosses with perseverance, using the armor of God to navigate life's adversities. May we, like Jesus, remain steadfast in our mission, trusting in God's plan and sorrowing for those who turn away from His love. In doing so, we reflect the heart of our loving Father, who desires to gather all under His wings.