Daily Readings - Sun Oct 27 2019
2 Timothy
6For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.7I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:8Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.16At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.17Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.18And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Luke
9And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others:10Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican.11The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.12I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess.13And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.14I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of justice, humility, and trust in God’s providence. In the first reading from Sirach, we hear that the Lord is a just judge who shows no favoritism, hearing the prayers of the oppressed, the widow, and the orphan. This passage emphasizes that true justice is not about outward appearances or social status but about being attentive to the marginalized and the humble. The second reading from 2 Timothy offers a personal reflection from St. Paul, who, nearing the end of his life, expresses confidence in God’s judgment and salvation. Despite being abandoned by others, Paul trusts that the Lord will deliver him and bring his mission to completion. Finally, the Gospel parable contrasts the Pharisee, who prays with self-righteousness, and the tax collector, who humbly acknowledges his sinfulness. Jesus makes it clear that it is the humble who are justified, not those who exalt themselves.
These readings are deeply connected, as they all point to the importance of humility and trust in God’s justice. Sirach reminds us that God’s justice is not about human standards but about caring for the vulnerable. Paul’s letter shows us how to trust in God’s plan even in difficult circumstances. The Gospel, meanwhile, teaches us that true righteousness is not about comparing ourselves to others but about recognizing our own limitations and turning to God with humility. Together, these readings call us to examine our own attitudes and actions, to let go of pride and self-reliance, and to place our hope in God’s mercy and justice.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to cultivate humility and compassion. We are called to recognize the dignity of all people, especially those who are often overlooked or marginalized. We are also reminded to trust in God’s plan, even when things seem uncertain or difficult. Let us approach prayer with the tax collector’s humility, acknowledging our sins and asking for mercy. Let us also strive to live with integrity, knowing that God sees the heart and will judge us according to our love and compassion for others. May we, like Paul, place our trust in the Lord, who will bring us to eternal life, and may we always remember that true greatness lies in humility and service to others.