Daily Catholic Mass Readings for October 9, 2018
First Reading: Galatians 1.13-24
13For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:14And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers.15But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by his grace,16To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood:17Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus.18Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days.19But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord's brother.20Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.21Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia;22And was unknown by face unto the churches of Judaea which were in Christ:23But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.24And they glorified God in me.
Psalm 139
1O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.2Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.3Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways.4For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.5Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me.6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it.7Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?8If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.9If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;10Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.11If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.12Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.13For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.14I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.15My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.16Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.17How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!18If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with thee.19Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.20For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy name in vain.21Do not I hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?22I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.23Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts:24And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Gospel: Luke 10.38-42
38Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house.39And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word.40But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.41And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things:42But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Galatians 1:13-24 recounts Paul's remarkable transformation from a persecutor of the Church to a devout apostle. Paul's journey illustrates God's boundless grace and the power of divine calling. His experience teaches us that no one is beyond redemption and that our past does not define our future. Paul's trust in God's plan, rather than seeking human approval, underscores the importance of faith and obedience.
The Gospel from Luke 10:38-42 presents the story of Martha and Mary, highlighting the balance between service and spiritual focus. Martha's diligence in serving is commendable, yet Jesus gently reminds her that Mary's choice to listen and be present with Him is equally valuable. This story teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God amidst life's busyness. It encourages us to create space for prayer and reflection, recognizing that spiritual nourishment is essential for a fulfilling life.
Both readings invite us to reflect on our priorities and trust in God's grace. Like Paul, we are called to embrace our unique missions, trusting in God's plan. Like Mary, we are reminded to seek a deeper connection with God, ensuring that our spiritual life is not overshadowed by worldly tasks. As we navigate our daily lives, may we find balance in serving others while nurturing our souls through prayer and reflection, allowing God's grace to transform and guide us.