Daily Readings - Fri Sep 22 2017
1 Timothy
2Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved.Teach and urge these things.3If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness,4he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions,5and constant friction among people who are depraved in mind and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.6Now there is great gain in godliness with contentment,7for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world.8But if we have food and clothing, with these we will be content.9But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.11But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called and about which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Luke
1Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him,2and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out,3and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected messages that guide us in our Christian journey. The first reading from 1 Timothy 6:2c-12 emphasizes the importance of serving others with humility and integrity, particularly within the context of faith. It warns against the pitfalls of greed and false teachings, urging us instead to embrace contentment and pursue virtues such as justice, piety, and charity. The passage reminds us that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in living a life grounded in faith and moral integrity.
The Gospel from Luke 8:1-3 presents a vivid scene of Jesus's ministry, highlighting the diverse community that supported his mission. The presence of women like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who provided for Jesus's needs, underscores the value of selfless service and the inclusive nature of the Kingdom of God. This passage invites us to reflect on how we, like these women, can contribute to the greater good through our unique gifts and resources.
Together, these readings remind us of the transformative power of service and contentment. In a world often driven by greed and individualism, they call us to reevaluate our priorities and align them with the teachings of Christ. By embracing humility, avoiding the snares of wealth, and supporting one another in faith, we can live out the Gospel in our daily lives, fostering a community rooted in love and mutual support. Let us strive to embody the virtues extolled in today's readings, trusting that true fulfillment comes not from material wealth but from a life dedicated to serving God and others.