Daily Readings - Sun Nov 19 2017

First Reading - Proverbs 31.10-13, 16-18, 20, 26, 28-31

¹⁰Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.¹¹The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.¹²She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.¹³She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.¹⁶She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.¹⁷She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.¹⁸She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.²⁰She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.²⁶She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.²⁸Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.²⁹Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.³⁰Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.³¹Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

Second Reading - 1 Thessalonians 5.1-6

1 Thessalonians

Chapter 5

¹But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.²For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.³For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.⁴But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.⁵Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.⁶Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.

Gospel - Matthew 25.14-15, 19-21

Matthew

Chapter 25

¹⁴For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.¹⁵And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.¹⁹After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.²⁰And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.²¹His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

Sermon

In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of faithfulness, preparedness, and virtuous living. The first reading from Proverbs 31 portrays the ideal wife, not just as a domestic figure, but as a symbol of virtue and industry. Her actions are guided by wisdom, compassion, and strength, making her a blessing to her family and community. This passage is part of the wisdom literature, offering insights into a life well-lived, characterized by integrity and care for others. The second reading from 1 Thessalonians shifts our focus to the unexpected nature of the Lord's return. Paul urges believers to remain vigilant and not be caught off guard, emphasizing the importance of spiritual preparedness. This eschatological passage reminds us that our faith is not just for the present but also for the future, calling us to live with purpose and responsibility. The Gospel from Matthew, the parable of the talents, reinforces the theme of stewardship. Jesus teaches that each of us is given gifts and resources, and we are expected to use them wisely and faithfully. The servants who invest their talents responsibly are praised, while the one who buries his talent is reprimanded. This parable challenges us to reflect on how we use our gifts and talents for the greater good. These readings connect through their emphasis on living with intention and responsibility. Whether through virtuous living, spiritual preparedness, or faithful stewardship, they call us to a life of purpose and integrity. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to use our talents wisely, live with compassion, and remain vigilant in our faith. May we be inspired to live in such a way that we are found faithful when the Lord returns. Let us embrace the call to live virtuously, prepared for whatever comes, and faithful in all that we do.