Daily Readings - Sun Jan 20 2019
Isaiah
1For Zion's sake will I not hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until the righteousness thereof go forth as brightness, and the salvation thereof as a lamp that burneth.2And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by a new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name.3Thou shalt also be a crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand of thy God.4Thou shalt no more be termed Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land shall be married.5For as a young man marrieth a virgin, so shall thy sons marry thee: and as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, so shall thy God rejoice over thee.
1 Corinthians
4Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.5And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.6And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.7But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.8For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;9To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;10To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:11But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.
John
1And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:2And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.3And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.4Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.5His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.6And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.7Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.8And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.9When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,10And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.11This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.12After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days.
Sermon
Today’s readings guide us through themes of hope, renewal, and the power of faith, inviting us to reflect on our relationship with God and our role within the community. The prophet Isaiah paints a vivid picture of a restored Zion, where God’s people are rejoiced over and given new names, symbolizing a renewed covenant. This vision of restoration is a testament to God’s enduring love and commitment to His people, offering hope to those in despair.
In the Gospel, we find ourselves at the wedding in Cana, where Mary’s intercession leads to Jesus’ first miracle. This act not only showcases Jesus’ divine power but also highlights Mary’s trust and prompt action. The turning of water into wine is more than a sign; it’s a symbol of the new covenant, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary, much like how God transforms our lives when we trust in Him.
The second reading from Corinthians reminds us that while we each have unique gifts, we are united in the Spirit. Just as the guests at the wedding each played their part, we too are called to use our gifts for the common good. This unity in diversity is a powerful reminder of the body of Christ, where every member is valued.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to trust in God’s timing and to recognize the significance of our contributions. Like Mary, we can intercede for others, trusting that God will act in His time. Embracing our roles within the community, we celebrate our diversity and work together towards a common purpose. Let us draw inspiration from these readings to live with hope, unity, and faith, trusting in God’s plan and valuing each person’s unique gifts.