Daily Readings - Wed Oct 30 2019
Romans
26Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words.27And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.28And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.29For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.30And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
Luke
22He went on his way through towns and villages, teaching and journeying toward Jerusalem.23And someone said to him, "Lord, will those who are saved be few?" And he said to them,24"Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able.25When once the master of the house has risen and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and to knock at the door, saying, 'Lord, open to us,' then he will answer you, 'I do not know where you come from.'26Then you will begin to say, 'We ate and drank in your presence, and you taught in our streets.'27But he will say, 'I tell you, I do not know where you come from. Depart from me, all you workers of evil!'28In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God but you yourselves cast out.29And people will come from east and west, and from north and south, and recline at table in the kingdom of God.30And behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last."
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on God’s plan for our lives and the call to live with purpose and perseverance. In the first reading from Romans, St. Paul reassures us that the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness, especially when we do not know how to pray. He reminds us that all things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to his purpose. This passage emphasizes the mysterious yet loving way God guides our lives, even when we cannot see the full picture. The Gospel, from Luke, shifts our focus to the urgency of living a life that aligns with God’s will. Jesus warns us about the narrow gate and the danger of complacency, reminding us that merely knowing or associating with him is not enough. True discipleship requires a commitment to live according to his teachings, even when the path is difficult. Those who persevere and remain faithful will find their place in the kingdom, while others may be surprised to find themselves outside.
Both readings remind us that God’s ways are not our ways, and his plan often exceeds our limited understanding. The Spirit’s intercession in Romans and the narrow gate in Luke both point to the mystery of God’s judgment and mercy. While we cannot fully grasp how he works, we are called to trust in his love and to live in a way that reflects our commitment to him. The narrow gate is not about earning salvation but about allowing our lives to be shaped by Christ’s teachings and values. The Spirit helps us in our weakness, but we must also strive to respond to God’s grace and to live as his saints.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to examine our priorities and our relationship with God. Are we relying on the Spirit’s guidance, or are we trying to navigate life on our own? Are we striving to live a life of faith and virtue, or are we content with a superficial relationship with Christ? The good news is that God is always at work in our lives, calling us to deeper conversion and holiness. Let us embrace the narrow gate with courage and trust, knowing that the Spirit is with us every step of the way. May we not be complacent but instead live with purpose, trusting that all things will indeed work together for good as we follow him.