Daily Readings - Sun Nov 13 2022
Malachi
1"For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, says the LORD of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch.2But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.
2 Thessalonians
7For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you,8nor did we eat anyone's bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you.9It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.10For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.11For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.12Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
Luke
5And while some were speaking of the temple, how it was adorned with noble stones and offerings, he said,6"As for these things that you see, the days will come when there will not be left here one stone upon another that will not be thrown down."7And they asked him, "Teacher, when will these things be, and what will be the sign when these things are about to take place?"8And he said, "See that you are not led astray. For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he!' and, 'The time is at hand!' Do not go after them.9And when you hear of wars and tumults, do not be terrified, for these things must first take place, but the end will not be at once."10Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.11There will be great earthquakes, and in various places famines and pestilences. And there will be terrors and great signs from heaven.12But before all this they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors for my name's sake.13This will be your opportunity to bear witness.14Settle it therefore in your minds not to meditate beforehand how to answer,15for I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict.16You will be delivered up even by parents and brothers and relatives and friends, and some of you they will put to death.17You will be hated by all for my name's sake.18But not a hair of your head will perish.19By your endurance you will gain your lives.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of judgment, responsibility, and trust in God's providence. In Malachi, we hear of the Day of the Lord, a time of purification where the arrogant will face judgment, while the righteous will find healing and joy. This passage reminds us of the ultimate judgment and the hope it brings to those who remain faithful. In 2 Thessalonians, Paul emphasizes the importance of diligent work and not being a burden to others, encouraging believers to lead responsible lives as they await the Lord's return. This reading underscores the value of hard work and self-sufficiency as part of our Christian calling.
In the Gospel, Luke presents Jesus speaking about the end times, warning against deception and persecution. Despite the challenges, Jesus assures us that God will provide the strength and wisdom needed to endure. This passage calls us to trust in God's plan and to remain steadfast in the face of adversity. Together, these readings remind us to live with purpose and responsibility, trusting that God will guide us through life's trials.
In our daily lives, these teachings encourage us to avoid complacency and idleness, embracing a life of purpose and diligence. They remind us to remain hopeful and faithful, knowing that God's justice will prevail. As we navigate life's challenges, let us trust in God's providence, living with integrity and perseverance, and find strength in His promise to guide us through all trials.