Daily Readings - Wed Oct 20 2021
Romans
12Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.13Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.14For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.15What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.16Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?17But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.18Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
Luke
39And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.40Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.41Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this parable unto us, or even to all?42And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of meat in due season?43Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.44Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.45But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken;46The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.47And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.48But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound responsibilities and expectations that come with our faith. The first reading from Romans 6:12-18 urges us to resist sin and instead offer our lives as instruments of justice, living under God’s grace. This passage emphasizes the transformation that occurs when we surrender to God, moving from slavery to sin to becoming servants of righteousness. The second reading from Luke 12:39-48 presents a parable about a master’s unexpected return, highlighting the importance of preparedness and faithfulness. Jesus teaches that those entrusted with much will be held to a higher standard, underscoring the consequences of neglecting our duties.
Both readings share a common theme of accountability and stewardship. In Romans, Paul focuses on our spiritual state, encouraging us to live in accordance with God’s grace. In Luke, Jesus emphasizes the practical aspects of faithfulness, illustrating the importance of being responsible with the resources and time we have. Together, these passages remind us that our faith is not passive but active, requiring us to make intentional choices that reflect our commitment to God.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are called to be mindful of our actions and choices, ensuring they align with our faith. We must remain spiritually vigilant, prepared for life’s unexpected challenges and opportunities. This means being faithful stewards of the talents, time, and resources entrusted to us. The moral lesson here is clear: our actions have consequences, and we are called to live with purpose and integrity, recognizing that we will be held accountable for how we live our lives. Let us strive to be faithful servants, using our gifts to serve others and glorify God.