Daily Readings - Tue Sep 19 2017
First Reading - 1 Timothy 3.1-13
1 Timothy
This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil.Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre;Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless.Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Gospel - Luke 7.11-17
Luke
And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God, saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us; and, That God hath visited his people.And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore the essence of leadership and compassion through the eyes of faith. The first reading from 1 Timothy outlines the qualities expected of church leaders—blamelessness, hospitality, and the ability to manage one's household. These qualities are not just administrative but reflect a deeper moral integrity, suggesting that true leadership stems from a life well-lived and a heart committed to serving others.
The Gospel from Luke presents a vivid narrative of Jesus's compassion. In raising the widow's son, Jesus embodies the leadership qualities described in 1 Timothy. His actions are driven by empathy and a divine mandate to serve. This miracle is not just a display of power but a testament to Jesus's role as a leader who serves with love and compassion.
These readings remind us that leadership, whether in the church or in our daily lives, is about serving with integrity and compassion. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by example, demonstrating love and care in our interactions. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we are invited to embrace the qualities Jesus modeled—compassion, integrity, and selfless service. Let us strive to lead with hearts that reflect God's love, transforming our world through our actions and faith.