Daily Readings - Wed Sep 29 2021
First Reading - Revelation 12.7-12a or Daniel 7.9-10, 13-14
Revelation
7Now war arose in heaven, Michael and his angels fighting against the dragon. And the dragon and his angels fought back,8but he was defeated and there was no longer any place for them in heaven.9And the great dragon was thrown down, that ancient serpent, who is called the devil and Satan, the deceiver of the whole world--he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.10And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying, "Now the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God and the authority of his Christ have come, for the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, who accuses them day and night before our God.11And they have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, for they loved not their lives even unto death.12Therefore, rejoice, O heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to you, O earth and sea, for the devil has come down to you in great wrath, because he knows that his time is short!"
Daniel
9As I looked, thrones were placed, and the Ancient of days took his seat; his clothing was white as snow, and the hair of his head like pure wool; his throne was fiery flames; its wheels were burning fire.10A stream of fire issued and came out from before him; a thousand thousands served him, and ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him; the court sat in judgment, and the books were opened.13I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a son of man, and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before him.14And to him was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom one that shall not be destroyed.
John
47Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward him and said of him, "Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom there is no deceit!"48Nathanael said to him, "How do you know me?" Jesus answered him, "Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you."49Nathanael answered him, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God! You are the King of Israel!"50Jesus answered him, "Because I said to you, 'I saw you under the fig tree,' do you believe? You will see greater things than these."51And he said to him, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you will see heaven opened, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on the nature of spiritual warfare and the triumph of faith. The first reading from Revelation 12:7-12a depicts a cosmic battle between Michael and the dragon, symbolizing Satan’s defeat. This passage reassures early Christian communities, persecuted and enduring trials, that their ultimate victory is secured through the blood of the Lamb and their steadfast testimony. The Gospel of John 1:47-51 presents a personal encounter where Jesus reveals His divine insight to Nathanael, who, in awe, professes faith in Jesus as the Son of God. Jesus promises Nathanael that he will witness even greater things, symbolizing the ongoing revelation of God’s work in believers’ lives.
Both readings, though distinct in context, are united by themes of spiritual conflict and divine triumph. Revelation’s apocalyptic vision addresses the broader struggle between good and evil, offering hope to the afflicted. John’s narrative, set in the context of Jesus’ ministry, illustrates the personal call to faith and discipleship. Together, they remind us that our faith is not passive but active, trusting in God’s power and revelation in our lives.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to recognize the spiritual battles we face, yet to trust in Christ’s victory. Like Nathanael, we are called to embrace faith and openness to God’s revelations. The moral lesson is clear: trust in God’s power, remain faithful, and be open to His workings in our lives. Through Christ, we have already overcome, and we can face challenges with hope and faith, knowing His greater works are yet to be seen.