Daily Readings - Sat Oct 16 2021
Romans
13For the promise to Abraham and his offspring that he would be heir of the world did not come through the law but through the righteousness of faith.16That is why it depends on faith, in order that the promise may rest on grace and be guaranteed to all his offspring--not only to the adherent of the law but also to the one who shares the faith of Abraham, who is the father of us all,17as it is written, "I have made you the father of many nations"--in the presence of the God in whom he believed, who gives life to the dead and calls into existence the things that do not exist.18In hope he believed against hope, that he should become the father of many nations, as he had been told, "So shall your offspring be."
Luke
8"And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God,9but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God.10And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but the one who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.11And when they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say,12for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say."
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore the themes of faith and trust in God. The first reading from Romans 4:13-18 highlights Abraham's unwavering faith in God's promise. Despite the impossibility of having numerous descendants in old age, Abraham trusted God, demonstrating that faith, not adherence to the law, is the foundation of God's promises. This passage emphasizes that faith is a gift from God, available to all who believe, transcending legalistic observances.
The Gospel from Luke 12:8-12 shifts focus to Jesus' teachings on acknowledging him publicly. Jesus assures that those who confess him will be acknowledged by the Son of Man, while those who deny him will face denial. He also warns against blaspheming the Holy Spirit, the only unforgivable sin. Jesus further comforts his followers by promising the Holy Spirit's guidance in times of persecution or questioning, reinforcing the importance of trusting in divine assistance.
Both readings underscore the importance of faith and trust in God. Abraham's faith in God's promises and Jesus' assurance of the Holy Spirit's guidance encourage believers to trust God in all circumstances. In daily life, this means embracing challenges with faith, knowing God's promises are reliable and that the Holy Spirit will provide the necessary strength and wisdom. The moral lesson is clear: cultivate faith and trust in God, just as Abraham did, and rely on the Holy Spirit's guidance, as Jesus promised.