Daily Readings - Tue Sep 18 2018
1 Corinthians
12For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.13For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.14For the body is not one member, but many.27Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.28And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.29Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?30Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?31But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Luke
11And 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.12Now 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.13And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.14And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.15And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.16And 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.17And this rumour of him went forth throughout all Judaea, and throughout all the region round about.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of the Church and the compassionate heart of Christ. In the first reading from 1 Corinthians, St. Paul reminds us that the Church is the body of Christ, composed of many diverse parts, each with its own unique role and gift. He emphasizes that while not all members have the same function, every part is essential for the well-being of the whole. This teaching calls us to recognize and appreciate the diversity within the Church, while also striving for unity in our shared mission to follow Christ.
In the Gospel, Luke presents us with a powerful story of Jesus’ compassion. Moved by the sorrow of a widow who has lost her only son, Jesus performs a miracle, raising the young man from death. This passage reveals the depth of God’s love and mercy, as well as the transformative power of faith. The crowd’s reaction—glorifying God and recognizing Jesus as a prophet—reminds us that our encounters with God’s mercy should lead us to praise and trust in His providence.
These readings are connected by the theme of life-giving love. Just as Christ’s compassion brought new life to the widow’s son, the Church, as the body of Christ, is called to bring life and hope to the world. Each of us, with our unique gifts and roles, is part of this mission. Let us ask ourselves: How can we, like Christ, show mercy and care for those around us? How can we use our talents to build up the body of Christ and bring light to a world in need? May we strive to live as true members of Christ’s body, united in love and dedicated to serving one another.