Daily Readings - Tue Oct 03 2017
Zechariah
20"Thus says the LORD of hosts: Peoples shall yet come, even the inhabitants of many cities.21The inhabitants of one city shall go to another, saying, 'Let us go at once to entreat the favor of the LORD and to seek the LORD of hosts; I myself am going.'22Many peoples and strong nations shall come to seek the LORD of hosts in Jerusalem and to entreat the favor of the LORD.23Thus says the LORD of hosts: In those days ten men from the nations of every tongue shall take hold of the robe of a Jew, saying, 'Let us go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.'"
Luke
51When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem.52And he sent messengers ahead of him, who went and entered a village of the Samaritans, to make preparations for him.53But the people did not receive him, because his face was set toward Jerusalem.54And when his disciples James and John saw it, they said, "Lord, do you want us to tell fire to come down from heaven and consume them?"55But he turned and rebuked them.56And they went on to another village.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages of unity, divine presence, and the call to embody God's love. The first reading from Zechariah paints a vivid picture of a future where people from all nations gather in Jerusalem, united by their desire to seek the Lord. This vision emphasizes God's universal presence and the ultimate unity He desires among all peoples. The Gospel from Luke presents a contrasting scene where Jesus faces rejection by the Samaritans, yet He responds not with anger but with a lesson on the true nature of His mission: to save, not to destroy.
The context of Zechariah's prophecy is one of hope and restoration, pointing to a time when God's people will live in peace and harmony. Luke's narrative, however, is set during Jesus' journey to Jerusalem, highlighting His unwavering commitment to His mission despite rejection. Both readings remind us that God's plan is universal, embracing all people, and that our response to adversity should reflect His love and mercy.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to embrace diversity and to seek unity amidst differences. Just as Jesus chose love over retaliation, we too can respond to rejection and challenges with compassion and understanding. Let us strive to be instruments of God's love, bringing people together rather than driving them apart. May we reflect God's heart by choosing love and unity, just as Jesus did on His journey to Jerusalem.