Daily Readings - Sun Sep 01 2019
Hebrews
18For ye are not come unto the mount that might be touched, and that burned with fire, nor unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest,19And the sound of a trumpet, and the voice of words; which voice they that heard intreated that the word should not be spoken to them any more:22But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels,23To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,24And to Jesus the mediator of the new covenant, and to the blood of sprinkling, that speaketh better things than that of Abel.
Luke
1And it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they watched him.7And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying unto them,8When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not down in the highest room; lest a more honourable man than thou be bidden of him;9And he that bade thee and him come and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with shame to take the lowest room.10But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee, Friend, go up higher: then shalt thou have worship in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee.11For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.12Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.13But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:14And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we explore the themes of humility and our spiritual identity. The first reading from Sirach reminds us of the importance of humility and respecting our parents, warning against the consequences of a wicked heart. It encourages us to cultivate humility, which will bring us grace and favor with God.
The second reading from Hebrews contrasts the intimidating presence of God on an earthly mountain with the celestial city of Mount Zion. This passage invites us to reflect on our spiritual citizenship in heaven, where we are part of a vast community including angels, the first-born, and Jesus, the mediator of the New Covenant. This heavenly perspective should inspire us to live with humility and hope.
In the Gospel, Luke presents a parable about humility at a wedding feast, advising against seeking the highest seat. Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from humility and serving others, especially those who cannot repay us. This practical advice extends to our daily interactions, encouraging us to embrace humility in all aspects of life.
These readings remind us that humility is not just a virtue but a way of life. By living humbly and serving others, we reflect the teachings of Jesus and align ourselves with the values of the Kingdom of God. Our focus should be on eternal rewards, where our humility and service will be recognized.
In conclusion, the moral lesson is clear: true greatness is found in humility and service. Let us strive to live with humility, recognizing our spiritual home in heaven, and serve others selflessly, as Jesus taught.