Daily Readings - Thu Sep 07 2023
Colossians
9And so, from the day we heard, we have not ceased to pray for you, asking that you may be filled with the knowledge of his will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding,10so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.11May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy,12giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of the saints in light.13He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son,14in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Luke
1On one occasion, while the crowd was pressing in on him to hear the word of God, he was standing by the lake of Gennesaret,2and he saw two boats by the lake, but the fishermen had gone out of them and were washing their nets.3Getting into one of the boats, which was Simon's, he asked him to put out a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people from the boat.4And when he had finished speaking, he said to Simon, "Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch."5And Simon answered, "Master, we toiled all night and took nothing! But at your word I will let down the nets."6And when they had done this, they enclosed a large number of fish, and their nets were breaking.7They signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink.8But when Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees, saying, "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord."9For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish that they had taken,10and so also were James and John, sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, "Do not be afraid; from now on you will be catching men."11And when they had brought their boats to land, they left everything and followed him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of spiritual growth, obedience, and the transformative power of faith. The first reading from Colossians is a heartfelt prayer where Paul expresses gratitude for the Colossians' faith and prays for their continued growth in wisdom and understanding. He emphasizes living a life worthy of God, bearing fruit through good works, and finding strength in patience and joy. This prayer underscores the importance of trusting in God's plan and the redemption offered through Jesus Christ.
The Gospel from Luke presents a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry as He calls Simon Peter and the other disciples. After a night of futile fishing, Jesus instructs Simon to cast his nets into deep water, resulting in an abundant catch. This miracle not only showcases Jesus' divine authority but also highlights Simon's obedience and humility. Recognizing his sinfulness, Simon humbly asks Jesus to depart, yet Jesus reassures him and invites him to follow, leading to a life of discipleship.
These readings remind us of the importance of trusting God's will, even when circumstances seem insurmountable. Like Simon, we are called to step out in faith, trusting that God's plan will lead us to places of abundance and purpose. The moral lesson here is clear: obedience and trust in God's guidance can lead to profound spiritual growth and a life of fulfillment. As we navigate our daily lives, let us seek to know God's will, trust in His providence, and be willing to follow His call wholeheartedly, just as the disciples did.