Daily Readings - Wed Oct 07 2020
Galatians
1Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.2And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.7But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;8For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)9And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.10Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.11But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.12For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.13And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.14But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
Luke
1And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.2And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.3Give us day by day our daily bread.4And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of unity, authenticity, and the power of prayer. The first reading from Galatians recounts Paul's journey to Jerusalem, where he and the apostles affirm the Gospel's universality for both Jews and Gentiles. Despite initial agreement, Paul confronts Peter for hypocrisy when Peter avoids Gentile believers, fearing judgment. This highlights the importance of living the Gospel truth without division.
The Gospel from Luke presents Jesus teaching the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing a communal and humble approach to prayer. It focuses on honoring God, seeking His will, and asking for forgiveness and guidance. This prayer teaches us to align our lives with God's purposes and to seek strength against temptation.
Together, these readings remind us that our faith must be lived authentically and unitedly. Prayer, as taught by Jesus, is not just a ritual but a way to stay connected to God and to each other. It calls us to forgive, seek God's kingdom, and avoid the temptations that divide us. Let us strive to live with such unity and authenticity, guided by prayer, reflecting God's love in our actions and relationships.