Daily Readings - Mon Sep 24 2018
Proverbs
27Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.28Do not say to your neighbor, "Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it"--when you have it with you.29Do not plan evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly beside you.30Do not contend with a man for no reason, when he has done you no harm.31Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways,32for the devious person is an abomination to the LORD, but the upright are in his confidence.33The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous.34Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.
Luke
16"No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.17For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.18Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the importance of living justly and being attentive to God’s word. The first reading from Proverbs encourages us to act with integrity, not withholding good from others and avoiding evil deeds. It emphasizes the wisdom of doing good when we can and not plotting against others, highlighting the consequences of our actions. The Gospel from Luke uses the metaphor of a candle to illustrate that our good deeds should be visible, and it stresses the importance of being receptive to God’s message, as our response affects the blessings we receive.
Both readings, while different in focus, share a common theme of responsibility—Proverbs focusing on outward actions and Luke on inward receptivity. Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature, offering practical advice for a virtuous life, while Luke’s passage is part of Jesus’ teachings, using a simple metaphor to convey deep spiritual truths. Together, they remind us that our actions and attentiveness have spiritual consequences.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to be mindful of our actions, ensuring we do good when possible and remain open to God’s word. By living justly and attentively, we align ourselves with God’s will, fostering spiritual growth and a life of integrity. The moral lesson here is clear: our actions and receptiveness shape our spiritual journey, guiding us toward a life of justice and grace.