Daily Readings - Tue Oct 26 2021
Romans
18For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.19For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God.20For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope21that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God.22For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.23And not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.24For in this hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what he sees?25But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.
Luke
18He said therefore, "What is the kingdom of God like? And to what shall I compare it?19It is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his garden, and it grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air made nests in its branches."20And again he said, "To what shall I compare the kingdom of God?21It is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, until it was all leavened."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of hope, transformation, and the Kingdom of God. The first reading from Romans reminds us that our current struggles are but a prelude to the glory that awaits us. Paul assures us that creation itself groans in anticipation of redemption, and we, as believers, wait with patient hope for the full revelation of our adoption as children of God. This hope is not in what we see but in what we trust will come to be.
The Gospel from Luke offers us two parables that illustrate the nature of the Kingdom of God. The mustard seed, though small, grows into a mighty tree, and the leaven, though hidden, transforms the entire dough. These parables teach us that the Kingdom begins inconspicuously but leads to profound transformation. Just as the seed and leaven work quietly yet powerfully, our faith, even in small acts, can have a transformative impact.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, we are reminded to trust in God’s plan, even when our current circumstances seem challenging. Like the mustard seed and leaven, our faith can grow and influence the world around us. Let us embrace hope, knowing that our patience and trust in God will lead to a future filled with glory and transformation. May we live each day contributing to the growth of God’s Kingdom, inspired by the promise that even the smallest beginnings can lead to extraordinary outcomes.