Daily Readings - Tue Oct 09 2018

¹³For you have heard of my former life in Judaism, how I persecuted the church of God violently and tried to destroy it.¹⁴And I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my own age among my people, so extremely zealous was I for the traditions of my fathers.¹⁵But when he who had set me apart before I was born, and who called me by his grace,¹⁶was pleased to reveal his Son to me, in order that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with anyone;¹⁷nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me, but I went away into Arabia, and returned again to Damascus.¹⁸Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to visit Cephas and remained with him fifteen days.¹⁹But I saw none of the other apostles except James the Lord's brother.²⁰(In what I am writing to you, before God, I do not lie!)²¹Then I went into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.²²And I was still unknown in person to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.²³They only were hearing it said, "He who used to persecute us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy."²⁴And they glorified God because of me.

Luke

Chapter 10

³⁸Now as they went on their way, Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed him into her house.³⁹And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet and listened to his teaching.⁴⁰But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to him and said, "Lord, do you not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me."⁴¹But the Lord answered her, "Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things,⁴²but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her."

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Galatians 1:13-24 recounts Paul's remarkable transformation from a persecutor of the Church to a devout apostle. Paul's journey illustrates God's boundless grace and the power of divine calling. His experience teaches us that no one is beyond redemption and that our past does not define our future. Paul's trust in God's plan, rather than seeking human approval, underscores the importance of faith and obedience. The Gospel from Luke 10:38-42 presents the story of Martha and Mary, highlighting the balance between service and spiritual focus. Martha's diligence in serving is commendable, yet Jesus gently reminds her that Mary's choice to listen and be present with Him is equally valuable. This story teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God amidst life's busyness. It encourages us to create space for prayer and reflection, recognizing that spiritual nourishment is essential for a fulfilling life. Both readings invite us to reflect on our priorities and trust in God's grace. Like Paul, we are called to embrace our unique missions, trusting in God's plan. Like Mary, we are reminded to seek a deeper connection with God, ensuring that our spiritual life is not overshadowed by worldly tasks. As we navigate our daily lives, may we find balance in serving others while nurturing our souls through prayer and reflection, allowing God's grace to transform and guide us.