Daily Readings - Mon Sep 19 2022
Proverbs
27Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.28Do not say to your neighbor, "Go, and come again, tomorrow I will give it"--when you have it with you.29Do not plan evil against your neighbor, who dwells trustingly beside you.30Do not contend with a man for no reason, when he has done you no harm.31Do not envy a man of violence and do not choose any of his ways,32for the devious person is an abomination to the LORD, but the upright are in his confidence.33The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the dwelling of the righteous.34Toward the scorners he is scornful, but to the humble he gives favor.
Luke
16"No one after lighting a lamp covers it with a jar or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a stand, so that those who enter may see the light.17For nothing is hidden that will not be made manifest, nor is anything secret that will not be known and come to light.18Take care then how you hear, for to the one who has, more will be given, and from the one who has not, even what he thinks that he has will be taken away."
Sermon
The first reading from Proverbs reminds us of the importance of living with integrity and generosity. It warns against withholding good from those who need it and against plotting harm against others, even those who trust us. The passage emphasizes the consequences of our actions: the unjust will face ridicule, while the humble and the just will receive God’s blessing. It calls us to reflect on how we treat others and whether our actions align with God’s will.
The Gospel from Luke shifts our focus to the responsibility that comes with receiving God’s gifts. Jesus uses the image of a lamp to illustrate that light is meant to be shared, not hidden. He warns that our response to God’s word determines whether we will receive more or lose even what we have. This teaching challenges us to consider how we listen to and live out the Gospel in our daily lives. Just as light must shine openly, our faith must be visible and active in the world.
Together, these readings invite us to live with openness, generosity, and accountability. They remind us that our actions have consequences and that we are called to be stewards of God’s grace. Let us ask ourselves: Are we withholding good from others? Are we living our faith in a way that illuminates the world? May we strive to live with integrity, share God’s light freely, and trust in His providence.