Daily Readings - Tue Oct 17 2017
First Reading - Romans 1.16-25
Romans
16For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Gospel - Luke 11.37-41
Luke
37And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.38And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.39And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.40Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?41But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful reflections on the nature of faith, integrity, and the human condition. The first reading from Romans reminds us that the Gospel is the power of God for salvation, yet it also warns us about the consequences of turning away from God. Paul describes how humanity, despite knowing God, has often chosen to exchange the truth for lies, worshipping creation rather than the Creator. This passage calls us to reflect on our own relationship with God and whether we, too, have allowed our hearts to grow darkened by sin or pride.
The Gospel from Luke offers a complementary message. Jesus is criticized by a Pharisee for not washing before eating, but he turns the tables by pointing out the Pharisee’s own hypocrisy. While they focus on outward cleanliness, their inner lives are filled with greed and wickedness. Jesus’ words are a stark reminder that true purity comes not from external rituals but from a heart transformed by love and humility. This teaching challenges us to examine our own lives: are we more concerned with appearances, or are we striving to live with integrity and authenticity?
Both readings invite us to look inward. Paul warns us against the spiritual decay that comes from rejecting God’s truth, while Jesus calls us to recognize the emptiness of outward piety without inner conversion. In our daily lives, we are often tempted to present a polished exterior while neglecting the state of our souls. Let us ask ourselves: Are we living as true followers of Christ, or are we merely going through the motions? May we turn to God with honest hearts, seeking to be cleansed from within, so that our lives may truly reflect the justice and love of God.