Daily Catholic Mass Readings for November 11, 2020
First Reading: Titus 3.1-7
1Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,2to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.3For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.4But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,5he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,6whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,7so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Psalm 23
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.2He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters.3He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.4Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.5You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
Gospel: Luke 17.11-19
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 are reminded of the transformative power of gratitude and faith. The first reading from Titus encourages believers to live virtuous lives, obeying authorities and avoiding malice, while emphasizing that our salvation comes not from our deeds but from God's mercy. This mercy regenerates us through the Holy Spirit, making us heirs of eternal life. The Gospel from Luke narrates Jesus healing ten lepers, with only one returning to express thanks, a Samaritan, whose faith Jesus commends.
Both readings highlight the importance of gratitude. Titus underscores being mindful of God's mercy, while Luke's Gospel illustrates the impact of acknowledging God's blessings. The Samaritan's gratitude stands out, teaching us that true faith is accompanied by thanksgiving. This reflects the broader theme of recognizing God's grace in our lives, regardless of our background or circumstances.
In our daily lives, we are called to cultivate gratitude, recognizing the blessings we often overlook. Like the Samaritan, we should humbly acknowledge God's mercy, allowing it to transform us. This practice not only deepens our faith but also inspires us to live with compassion and kindness. Let us remember that gratitude is not just a response but a way of life, reflecting our trust in God's providence and love.