Daily Readings - Sat Oct 27 2018
Ephesians
7But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ.8Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.9Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the lower parts of the earth?10He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things.)11And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:13Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:14That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;15But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:16From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
Luke
1There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.2And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?3I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.4Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?5I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.6He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.7Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?8And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:9And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on our roles within the Christian community and our personal journey towards spiritual growth. The first reading from Ephesians reminds us that each of us has been given unique gifts and talents, entrusted to us by God. These gifts are not for personal gain but for the edification of the body of Christ, fostering unity and maturity in faith. The context is St. Paul addressing the early church, emphasizing that each member plays a vital role in the community's growth. The church is called to move beyond childish ways, swayed by every doctrine, and instead grow in love and truth.
The Gospel from Luke presents Jesus teaching about repentance and God's patience. He uses the parable of the fig tree to illustrate that each of us is given time to bear spiritual fruit. The fig tree, symbolizing each believer, is nurtured and given opportunities to produce fruit, reflecting our responsibility to use our gifts wisely. The connection between the readings lies in the emphasis on stewardship and purpose. Ephesians highlights our roles, while Luke underscores the need for fruitful living, reminding us that our gifts must be used to bear fruit in service and love.
In our daily lives, this calls us to reflect on how we use our talents and gifts. We are encouraged to avoid complacency and instead strive for continuous spiritual growth. The moral lesson is clear: we are stewards of God's grace, called to repentance and fruitful living. As we go about our days, let us remember that our actions have consequences and that we are given time to grow. May we embrace our roles, seek spiritual nourishment, and produce fruit that reflects God's love, living with purpose and humility.