Daily Readings - Thu Oct 31 2024
Ephesians
10Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might.11Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.12For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.13Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.14Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness,15and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace.16In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one;17and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God,18praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,19and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel,20for which I am an ambassador in chains, that I may declare it boldly, as I ought to speak.
Luke
31At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, "Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you."32And he said to them, "Go and tell that fox, 'Behold, I cast out demons and perform cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I finish my course.33Nevertheless, I must go on my way today and tomorrow and the day following, for it cannot be that a prophet should perish away from Jerusalem.'34O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often would I have gathered your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not!35Behold, your house is forsaken. And I tell you, you will not see me until you say, 'Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!'"
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Ephesians 6:10-20 invites us to don the armor of God, emphasizing the necessity of spiritual preparedness. This armor—comprising truth, righteousness, the Gospel, faith, salvation, and the Spirit—equips us to withstand the spiritual battles we face, not against flesh and blood, but against the forces of evil. The Apostle urges us to pray unceasingly for strength and for the courage to proclaim the Gospel boldly.
The Gospel from Luke 13:31-35 presents Jesus facing a threat from Herod, yet he remains undeterred in his mission. Jesus' response highlights his divine purpose, continuing his work of healing and casting out demons. His lament over Jerusalem reflects his sorrow over the city's rejection of the prophets and himself, illustrating the heart of a loving God who yearns to gather his children, only to be spurned. This passage underscores Jesus' unwavering commitment to his Father's will, even in the face of danger and rejection.
Both readings remind us to stand firm in our faith, trusting in God's providence amidst life's challenges. Just as Jesus faced opposition with courage, we too can face our struggles armed with the virtues of truth and righteousness. Let us apply this teaching by embracing our daily crosses with perseverance, using the armor of God to navigate life's adversities. May we, like Jesus, remain steadfast in our mission, trusting in God's plan and sorrowing for those who turn away from His love. In doing so, we reflect the heart of our loving Father, who desires to gather all under His wings.