Daily Readings - Fri Oct 04 2024
Job
12"Have you commanded the morning since your days began, and caused the dawn to know its place,13that it might take hold of the skirts of the earth, and the wicked be shaken out of it?14It is changed like clay under the seal, and its features stand out like a garment.15From the wicked their light is withheld, and their uplifted arm is broken.16"Have you entered into the springs of the sea, or walked in the recesses of the deep?17Have the gates of death been revealed to you, or have you seen the gates of deep darkness?18Have you comprehended the expanse of the earth? Declare, if you know all this.19"Where is the way to the dwelling of light, and where is the place of darkness,20that you may take it to its territory and that you may discern the paths to its home?21You know, for you were born then, and the number of your days is great!
Luke
13"Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.14But it will be more bearable in the judgment for Tyre and Sidon than for you.15And you, Capernaum, will you be exalted to heaven? You shall be brought down to Hades.16"The one who hears you hears me, and the one who rejects you rejects me, and the one who rejects me rejects him who sent me."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound moments of encounter with the divine. The first reading from Job finds the protagonist humbled by God's questioning, which underscores human limitations and God's vastness. Job's response is one of humility and acknowledgment of his finite understanding. In the Gospel, Jesus addresses the towns of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum, rebuking their lack of repentance despite witnessing miracles, contrasting their fate with that of Tyre and Sidon, which, though sinful, will find forgiveness.
These passages highlight the importance of humility and responsiveness to God's presence. Job's humility stands in contrast to the towns' hardness of heart, illustrating the necessity of openness to divine messages. The readings remind us that recognizing our limitations and being receptive to God's will are essential for spiritual growth.
In our daily lives, this teaches us to approach challenges with humility and openness. Just as Job acknowledged his limitations and the towns were called to repentance, we too must remain humble and responsive to God's guidance. This humility allows us to navigate life's complexities with grace and openness, fostering a deeper connection with the divine.