Daily Readings - Mon Nov 13 2017
First Reading - Wisdom 1.1-7
Gospel - Luke 17.1-6
Luke
1Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!2It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend one of these little ones.3Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.4And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.5And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.6And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the essence of wisdom, justice, and the power of faith. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us to love justice and seek the Lord with a simple heart. It warns that wisdom cannot dwell in a soul dominated by malice or sin, emphasizing the importance of purity and sincerity in our relationship with God. The Gospel from Luke, on the other hand, highlights the importance of forgiveness and faith. Jesus teaches His disciples to correct and forgive one another, even multiple times a day, illustrating the boundless mercy of God. The Apostles, recognizing the challenge of such teachings, ask for increased faith, to which Jesus responds by illustrating the immense power of even the smallest amount of faith.
The connection between these readings lies in their call to trust in God's wisdom and live virtuously. Wisdom is not just knowledge but a way of life that seeks justice and goodness. Similarly, faith is not merely belief but a trust that empowers us to overcome life's challenges. Jesus' teachings on forgiveness remind us that our faith must be active, leading us to reconcile with others and trust in God's providence.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to cultivate wisdom by living justly and seeking God with sincerity. They remind us to practice forgiveness generously, as God forgives us. Let us trust in the power of our faith, no matter how small, knowing it can move mountains. May we strive to live with hearts open to God's wisdom and guided by the faith that transforms our lives and the world around us.