Daily Readings - Mon Nov 04 2019
Romans
29For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.30For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief:31Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.32For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.33O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!34For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?35Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?36For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Luke
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 are presented with profound reflections on God's mercy and our call to humility and generosity. The first reading from Romans reminds us that God's gifts and call are irrevocable, and His mercy is available to all. Paul emphasizes the mystery of God's ways, which are beyond human comprehension, yet He showers mercy on everyone. The Gospel from Luke offers a practical lesson: Jesus teaches that true generosity lies in inviting those who cannot repay us, promising that our reward will be in the resurrection. This teaching challenges us to move beyond reciprocal relationships and embrace selfless love.
Both readings highlight the theme of God's universal mercy and our response to it. Romans provides the theological foundation, explaining that God's mercy is not limited and is available to all people. Luke then gives us a practical application of this mercy, urging us to extend it to others, especially those on the margins. This connection between the readings encourages us to live out God's mercy in our daily interactions.
Applying these teachings to our lives, we are called to humility and trust in God's plan. We should approach others with generosity, not expecting anything in return, mirroring God's unconditional love. The moral lesson here is clear: true humility and trust in God's providence lead us to live selflessly, confident that our ultimate reward comes from Him. Let us embrace this call to mercy and generosity, reflecting God's love in all we do.