Daily Readings - Wed Nov 22 2023
Luke
11As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately.12He said therefore, "A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return.13Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them, 'Engage in business until I come.'14But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, 'We do not want this man to reign over us.'15When he returned, having received the kingdom, he ordered these servants to whom he had given the money to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by doing business.16The first came before him, saying, 'Lord, your mina has made ten minas more.'17And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.'18And the second came, saying, 'Lord, your mina has made five minas.'19And he said to him, 'And you are to be over five cities.'20Then another came, saying, 'Lord, here is your mina, which I kept laid away in a handkerchief;21for I was afraid of you, because you are a severe man. You take what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.'22He said to him, 'I will condemn you with your own words, you wicked servant! You knew that I was a severe man, taking what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow?23Why then did you not put my money in the bank, and at my coming I might have collected it with interest?'24And he said to those who stood by, 'Take the mina from him, and give it to the one who has the ten minas.'25And they said to him, 'Lord, he has ten minas!'26'I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.27But as for these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me.'"28And when he had said these things, he went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful themes of faithfulness, responsibility, and trust in God's plan. The first reading from 2 Maccabees tells the story of a mother and her seven sons who endure torture rather than renounce their faith. Despite the brutal circumstances, the mother's unwavering faith and trust in God's promise of resurrection inspire her sons to remain loyal to their beliefs. This narrative highlights the strength of conviction and the hope of eternal life that sustains believers in the face of adversity.
The Gospel from Luke presents a parable about a nobleman who entrusts his servants with resources before departing to claim his kingdom. Upon his return, he evaluates their stewardship, rewarding those who multiplied their resources and punishing the one who failed to act. This parable emphasizes the importance of being faithful stewards of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to us. It also underscores the consequences of fear and inaction, contrasting with the nobleman's harsh dealings with those who reject his authority.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on faithfulness and trust in God. The mother in 2 Maccabees exemplifies trust in God's plan, even in suffering, while the parable in Luke calls us to responsibly use the gifts we've been given. In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to remain faithful, whether facing trials or managing our talents. They remind us that our actions have consequences and that trusting in God's plan, even when uncertain, is essential. Let us strive to be faithful stewards, trusting in God's providence and living with hope and courage.