Daily Readings - Wed Nov 13 2019
Luke
11On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee.12And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance13and lifted up their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us."14When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed.15Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice;16and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan.17Then Jesus answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?18Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?"19And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful lessons on humility, justice, and gratitude. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us that true power comes from God and that leaders will be judged on how justly they ruled. It calls us to humility and accountability, urging those in positions of authority to remember that their strength is a gift from God. The Gospel from Luke tells the story of Jesus healing ten lepers, but only one, a Samaritan, returns to thank Him. This foreigner, an outcast, shows faith and gratitude, while the others, perhaps too focused on their own needs, forget to give thanks.
The connection between these readings lies in their emphasis on the right use of power and the importance of gratitude. Wisdom warns the powerful to remain humble and just, while the Gospel highlights the faith of the marginalized. Both readings challenge us to recognize that true greatness comes not from status or power, but from a humble and grateful heart. The Samaritan leper, despite his outcast status, shows us that gratitude is a form of faith, acknowledging God’s mercy in our lives.
As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: How do we use the power and influence we have? Do we lead with justice and humility? Do we take time to thank God for His blessings, even in the midst of challenges? Let us strive to live with the humility of the Samaritan, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God. May we, like him, return to the Lord with hearts full of gratitude, for it is in thanksgiving that we find true healing and salvation.