Daily Readings - Sat Sep 29 2018
First Reading - Revelation 12.7-12a or Daniel 7.9-10, 13-14
Revelation
7Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back,8but he was defeated and there was no longer any place for them in heaven.9And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.10And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.11And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.12Therefore, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!"
Daniel
9As I looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire.10A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened.13I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.14And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.
John
47Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!"48Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you."49Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"50Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."51And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful narratives that invite us to reflect on the nature of spiritual struggle and the recognition of divine authority. The first reading from Revelation 12:7-12a describes a cosmic battle where Michael and the angels defeat Satan, casting him out of heaven. This symbolic passage reassures early Christians, and us today, that despite earthly challenges, God's sovereignty prevails. The followers of God overcome Satan through their faith and sacrifice, embodying the resilience of the faithful amidst adversity.
The Gospel reading, John 1:47-51, shifts focus to a personal encounter. Jesus commends Nathanael for his sincerity and reveals His divine knowledge, leading Nathanael to recognize Jesus as the Son of God. This moment highlights the importance of personal faith and the transformative power of encountering Christ. The fig tree, a symbol of prayer and study, underscores Jesus' insight into Nathanael's heart, illustrating how Christ sees beyond the surface into our deepest selves.
Both readings intertwine the themes of spiritual warfare and divine recognition. Revelation offers a broader view of cosmic conflict, while John focuses on individual faith. Together, they remind us that our daily struggles are part of a larger spiritual landscape. Just as Nathanael trusted in Jesus, we too can find strength in our faith, recognizing Christ's presence in our lives. This recognition empowers us to overcome challenges, trusting in God's plan and His ultimate triumph over evil. Let us embrace this faith, allowing it to guide us through life's trials, knowing that in Christ, we are victorious.