Daily Readings - Thu Sep 13 2018
1 Corinthians
1Now concerning food offered to idols: we know that "all of us possess knowledge." This "knowledge" puffs up, but love builds up.2If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.3But if anyone loves God, he is known by God.4Therefore, as to the eating of food offered to idols, we know that "an idol has no real existence," and that "there is no God but one."5For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth--as indeed there are many "gods" and many "lords"--6yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.7However, not all possess this knowledge. But some, through former association with idols, eat food as really offered to an idol, and their conscience, being weak, is defiled.11And so by your knowledge this weak person is destroyed, the brother for whom Christ died.12Thus, sinning against your brothers and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ.13Therefore, if food makes my brother stumble, I will never eat meat, lest I make my brother stumble.
Luke
27"But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,28bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you.29To one who strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also, and from one who takes away your cloak do not withhold your tunic either.30Give to everyone who begs from you, and from one who takes away your goods do not demand them back.31And as you wish that others would do to you, do so to them.32"If you love those who love you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them.33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what benefit is that to you? For even sinners do the same.34And if you lend to those from whom you expect to receive, what credit is that to you? Even sinners lend to sinners, to get back the same amount.35But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.36Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful.37"Judge not, and you will not be judged; condemn not, and you will not be condemned; forgive, and you will be forgiven;38give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound teachings that guide us on the path of love and humility. The first reading from 1 Corinthians reminds us that while knowledge is valuable, it is love that truly builds up the community. Paul addresses the issue of eating meat sacrificed to idols, urging believers to consider the impact of their actions on others, especially those with weaker faith. He emphasizes that our knowledge should not lead others into sin, but rather, we should act with charity and care for one another.
The Gospel from Luke presents Jesus' teachings on radical love and mercy. He calls us to love our enemies, turn the other cheek, and live by the Golden Rule. Jesus sets a high standard, distinguishing His followers by their ability to go beyond the world's expectations, showing mercy and forgiveness just as God does. This teaching challenges us to move beyond self-interest and embrace a life of selflessness and compassion.
Both readings highlight the importance of considering others in our actions and decisions. In Corinthians, it's about not offending weaker brothers, while in Luke, it's about loving those who may not return our love. Together, they remind us that our faith is not just about knowledge, but about living out God's love in our daily lives. The moral lesson is clear: love and mercy should guide our actions, reflecting God's love even when it's challenging. Let us strive to live in humility and selflessness, mindful of how our choices affect others, and embody the radical love that Jesus taught.