Daily Readings - Sun Oct 23 2022
2 Timothy
6For I am already being poured out as a drink offering, and the time of my departure has come.7I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.8Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that Day, and not only to me but also to all who have loved his appearing.16At my first defense no one came to stand by me, but all deserted me. May it not be charged against them!17But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion's mouth.18The Lord will rescue me from every evil deed and bring me safely into his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever and ever. Amen.
Luke
9He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and treated others with contempt:10"Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.11The Pharisee, standing by himself, prayed thus: 'God, I thank you that I am not like other men, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector.12I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I get.'13But the tax collector, standing far off, would not even lift up his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, a sinner!'14I tell you, this man went down to his house justified, rather than the other. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of humility, justice, and trust in God. The first reading from Sirach emphasizes God’s impartial justice, particularly toward the vulnerable. It reminds us that God hears the prayers of the oppressed and values humility over self-righteousness. This sets the stage for understanding that true faith is not about outward appearances but about a genuine relationship with God.
The second reading from 2 Timothy reinforces this message through Paul’s testimony of perseverance and trust in God. Despite facing hardships, Paul remains steadfast, trusting in God’s justice and mercy. His confidence is not in his own achievements but in God’s faithfulness. This reading encourages us to remain loyal to our faith, even in challenging times, knowing that God’s justice will prevail.
The Gospel parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector vividly illustrates the contrast between self-righteousness and humility. The Pharisee’s pride leads him to judge others, while the tax collector’s humility opens him to God’s mercy. Jesus teaches us that it is not our status or deeds that justify us, but our willingness to acknowledge our limitations and seek God’s forgiveness.
These readings collectively call us to embrace humility and trust in God’s justice. In our daily lives, this means letting go of pride and judgment, and instead, cultivating a humble heart that seeks God’s mercy. By doing so, we align ourselves with God’s will, finding true justification and peace. Let us strive to live with humility and perseverance, trusting in God’s faithfulness and justice.