Daily Readings - Wed Nov 12 2025
Wisdom
1Wisdom is better than power, and a prudent man is better than a powerful one2Therefore, hear, O kings, and understand; learn, you judges of the ends of the earth3Listen closely, you who hold the attention of the crowds, and who please yourselves by disturbing the nations4For power has been given to you from the Lord and strength from the Most High, who will examine your works and scrutinize your thoughts5For, when you were ministers of his kingdom, you did not judge correctly, nor keep the law of justice, nor walk according to the will of God6Horribly and quickly he will appear to you, because he will make a severe judgment for those who are in charge7For, to the little, great mercy is granted, but the powerful will endure powerful torment8For the Lord will not exempt anyone’s character, nor will he stand in awe of anyone’s greatness, because he himself made the little and the great, and he is equally concerned for everyone9But a powerful torture pursues the powerful10Therefore, O kings, these, my words, are for you, so that you may learn wisdom and not perish11For those who have justly preserved justice will be justified, and those who have learned these things will find what to answer
Luke
11And it happened that, while he was traveling to Jerusalem, he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee12And as he was entering a certain town, ten leprous men met him, and they stood at a distance13And they lifted up their voice, saying, "Jesus, Teacher, take pity on us.14And when he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And it happened that, as they were going, they were cleansed15And one of them, when he saw that he was cleansed, returned, magnifying God with a loud voice16And he fell face down before his feet, giving thanks. And this one was a Samaritan17And in response, Jesus said: "Were not ten made clean? And so where are the nine18Was no one found who would return and give glory to God, except this foreigner?19And he said to him: "Rise up, go forth. For your faith has saved you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about wisdom, power, and gratitude. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us that true strength comes not from dominance or control, but from living justly and humbly. It warns those in positions of power that they will be held to a higher standard, for they are stewards of God’s creation. The reading emphasizes that wisdom is the greatest virtue, surpassing might, and that it is through prudent and just leadership that we honor God. The second reading from Luke’s Gospel presents a vivid contrast between healing and thanksgiving. Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one— a Samaritan—returns to express gratitude. This foreigner, often marginalized in society, shows us the depth of true faith and the importance of acknowledging God’s mercy in our lives.
These readings are deeply connected. Both invite us to reflect on how we use the gifts and opportunities God has given us. The Book of Wisdom challenges us to lead with integrity and compassion, recognizing that power is not an end in itself but a means to serve others. Similarly, the Gospel calls us to humility and gratitude, reminding us that faith is not just about receiving blessings but also about acknowledging and thanking God for them. The Samaritan leper, often seen as an outsider, becomes a model of authentic faith, teaching us that true spirituality transcends boundaries and expectations.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to examine how we exercise authority and express gratitude. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we are called to lead with wisdom and justice, mindful that we are accountable to God for how we treat others. At the same time, we are invited to cultivate a spirit of thanksgiving, even in small things, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God. Let us strive to be like the Samaritan, whose faith was not only in his healing but also in his willingness to return and give glory to God. May we, too, live with humility, gratitude, and a deep awareness of God’s presence in our lives.