Daily Readings - Tue Oct 20 2020
Ephesians
12That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:13But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.14For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;15Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;16And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:17And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.18For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.19Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;20And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;21In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:22In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
Luke
35Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning;36And ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord, when he will return from the wedding; that when he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.37Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.38And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of unity and preparedness, both essential for a life rooted in faith. The first reading from Ephesians reminds us that through Christ, we are united, breaking down walls of separation and becoming part of God's household. This unity is not just a spiritual concept but a call to live as one body, reconciled through Christ's sacrifice. The context of Paul's letter to the Ephesians emphasizes the inclusion of Gentiles, illustrating God's plan to unify all people in His family.
The Gospel from Luke shifts our focus to preparedness. Jesus teaches us to be vigilant, like servants awaiting their master's return. This preparedness is not about fear but about faithful living, ensuring our actions reflect our commitment to Christ. The servants who are ready are blessed, as they embody the readiness to serve at any moment, trusting in God's timing.
Together, these readings call us to live in unity and vigilance. Our unity in Christ should inspire us to live harmoniously and supportively, while our preparedness should manifest in daily acts of service and mindfulness. The moral lesson here is clear: we are called to be one in Christ and to live each day with the readiness to serve Him faithfully. Let us embrace this dual call, living as united and vigilant followers of Christ.