Daily Readings - Sat Sep 09 2017
Colossians
21And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds,22he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death, in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him,23if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel that you heard, which has been proclaimed in all creation under heaven, and of which I, Paul, became a minister.
Luke
1On a Sabbath, while he was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands.2But some of the Pharisees said, "Why are you doing what is not lawful to do on the Sabbath?"3And Jesus answered them, "Have you not read what David did when he was hungry, he and those who were with him:4how he entered the house of God and took and ate the bread of the Presence, which is not lawful for any but the priests to eat, and also gave it to those with him?"5And he said to them, "The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about faith, compassion, and the essence of God's law. The first reading from Colossians reminds us of our reconciliation through Christ's sacrifice, urging us to remain steadfast in faith. The Gospel from Luke presents Jesus challenging the Pharisees' strict Sabbath observance, emphasizing that human needs and compassion should guide our understanding of God's laws.
Both readings highlight the importance of living out our faith with love and understanding. Colossians calls us to holiness and unwavering faith, while Luke's passage shows Jesus prioritizing people's well-being over rigid rules. This connection teaches us that our actions should be guided by love and service, reflecting God's heart rather than mere legalism.
As we apply these teachings to our lives, we are reminded to approach challenges with compassion and faith. Let us strive to be reconcilers, bringing God's love into our interactions. By doing so, we honor the essence of our faith, living as holy and blameless children of God, guided by love and mercy.