Daily Readings - Wed Sep 23 2020
Proverbs
5Every word of God proves true; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6Do not add to his words, lest he rebuke you and you be found a liar.7Two things I ask of you; deny them not to me before I die:8Remove far from me falsehood and lying; give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me,9lest I be full and deny you and say, "Who is the LORD?" or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God.
Luke
1And he called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases,2and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal.3And he said to them, "Take nothing for your journey, no staff, nor bag, nor bread, nor money; and do not have two tunics.4And whatever house you enter, stay there, and from there depart.5And wherever they do not receive you, when you leave that town shake off the dust from your feet as a testimony against them."6And they departed and went through the villages, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on trust in God and simplicity of life. The first reading from Proverbs reminds us to trust in God's wisdom and provision, avoiding the extremes of wealth and poverty. It encourages us to be content with what is necessary, fostering a deep faith that God will provide. The Gospel from Luke shows Jesus sending out the apostles with nothing, teaching them to rely solely on God's grace and the kindness of others. This mission emphasizes trust and detachment from material possessions.
Both readings highlight the importance of trusting in God's providence. Proverbs, part of the wisdom literature, teaches us to seek balance and contentment, while Luke's passage illustrates the early Christian community's reliance on faith. The apostles' mission demonstrates that true strength comes from God, not from what we possess.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace simplicity and trust in God's plan. We are reminded not to be controlled by material wealth but to find joy in what is essential. Let us pray for the grace to trust God fully, living with gratitude and contentment, and may our faith guide us in all we do.