Daily Readings - Wed Oct 19 2022
Ephesians
1For this reason I, Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus on behalf of you Gentiles--2assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God's grace that was given to me for you,3how the mystery was made known to me by revelation, as I have written briefly.4When you read this, you can perceive my insight into the mystery of Christ,5which was not made known to the sons of men in other generations as it has now been revealed to his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit.6This mystery is that the Gentiles are fellow heirs, members of the same body, and partakers of the promise in Christ Jesus through the gospel.7Of this gospel I was made a minister according to the gift of God's grace, which was given me by the working of his power.8To me, though I am the very least of all the saints, this grace was given, to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,9and to bring to light for everyone what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God who created all things,10so that through the church the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.11This was according to the eternal purpose that he has realized in Christ Jesus our Lord,12in whom we have boldness and access with confidence through our faith in him.
Luke
39But know this, that if the master of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have left his house to be broken into.40You also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect."41Peter said, "Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?"42And the Lord said, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?43Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.44Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.45But if that servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed in coming,' and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk,46the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful.47And that servant who knew his master's will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating.48But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful reminders of God’s grace and our responsibility to live with faithfulness and preparedness. The first reading from Ephesians reveals Paul’s profound humility and gratitude as he reflects on his mission to the Gentiles. Once a persecutor of the Church, Paul was transformed by God’s grace and entrusted with the task of proclaiming the Gospel to those who were once strangers to God’s covenant. He emphasizes that this mystery of unity—Jews and Gentiles together as co-heirs in Christ—was hidden for ages but has now been revealed through the Church. Paul’s words invite us to marvel at the boundless wisdom and generosity of God, who has entrusted us with the riches of Christ’s grace.
The Gospel from Luke complements this theme with Jesus’ parable of the faithful steward. The parable warns us to be vigilant and prepared for the Lord’s return, for we do not know the hour when he will come. Jesus emphasizes the importance of living with integrity and responsibility, especially for those who have been entrusted with much. The unfaithful servant who neglects his duties and indulges in sin will face judgment, while the faithful steward who serves with prudence and care will be rewarded. This teaching challenges us to examine how we are using the gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given us. Are we living as if the Lord might return at any moment, or are we growing complacent and distracted by the cares of the world?
These readings call us to reflect on our spiritual lives and our role as stewards of God’s grace. Like Paul, we are called to share the Gospel with others, not because of our own worthiness, but because of God’s mercy and trust in us. Like the faithful steward, we are to live with purpose and integrity, knowing that our actions have consequences. Let us ask ourselves: Am I using the gifts and resources God has given me to build up the Kingdom? Am I prepared to give an account of my life when the Lord returns? May we embrace the wisdom of these readings and strive to live with faith, gratitude, and a deep trust in God’s plan.