Daily Readings - Wed Nov 13 2024
Titus
1Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,2to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.3For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.4But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,5he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,6whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,7so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
Luke
11On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee.12And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance13and lifted up their voices, saying, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us."14When he saw them he said to them, "Go and show yourselves to the priests." And as they went they were cleansed.15Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice;16and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan.17Then Jesus answered, "Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine?18Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?"19And he said to him, "Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well."
Sermon
**Readings:**
First Reading: Titus 3:1-7
Second Reading: Luke 17:11-19
**Sermon:**
In today's readings, we are reminded of the transformative power of God's mercy and the importance of gratitude. The First Reading from Titus encourages believers to live virtuous lives, obeying authorities and doing good works, not because we earn salvation through these actions, but because we are called to reflect God's mercy. We were once lost in sin, but through the Holy Spirit, we are regenerated and justified by God's grace.
The Gospel from Luke presents a vivid scene where Jesus heals ten lepers. While all are healed, only one, a Samaritan, returns to thank Jesus. This narrative underscores the theme of gratitude and the appropriate response to God's mercy. The Samaritan's actions highlight the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry and serve as a reminder that true faith is accompanied by thanksgiving.
These readings invite us to reflect on our response to God's mercy. Like the Samaritan, we are called to live with gratitude, recognizing the blessings we receive. Gratitude transforms our hearts, fostering a deeper relationship with God and inspiring us to live virtuous lives. Let us not forget to thank God for His mercy, allowing it to shape our actions and attitudes, just as the Samaritan's gratitude led him to glorify God.