Daily Readings - Tue Sep 20 2022
Proverbs
1The king's heart is in the hand of the LORD, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.2Every way of a man is right in his own eyes: but the LORD pondereth the hearts.3To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the LORD than sacrifice.4An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin.5The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenteousness; but of every one that is hasty only to want.6The getting of treasures by a lying tongue is a vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek death.10The soul of the wicked desireth evil: his neighbour findeth no favour in his eyes.11When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he receiveth knowledge.12The righteous man wisely considereth the house of the wicked: but God overthroweth the wicked for their wickedness.13Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.
Luke
19Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.20And it was told him by certain which said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to see thee.21And he answered and said unto them, My mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the relationship between faith, action, and the true meaning of family. In the first reading from Proverbs, we are reminded that true wisdom lies not in wealth or power, but in living a life of mercy, justice, and integrity. The passage warns against the dangers of selfishness and laziness, emphasizing that our actions have consequences. It also highlights the importance of discernment and compassion, urging us to listen to the cries of the poor and to act with justice.
In the Gospel, Jesus expands our understanding of family beyond biological ties. When his mother and brothers cannot reach him due to the crowd, he declares that his true family consists of those who hear the word of God and put it into practice. This teaching challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and relationships. Jesus is not dismissing his biological family, but he is emphasizing that spiritual kinship is rooted in obedience to God’s will. This is a call to live out our faith in tangible ways, just as the first reading encourages us to act with mercy and justice.
Together, these readings remind us that our faith must be lived out in our daily lives. It is not enough to claim a relationship with God if our actions do not reflect His love and justice. Let us ask ourselves: Are we truly hearing and doing the word of God? Are we living with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to justice? May we strive to be part of Jesus’ true family by living out our faith in love and service to others.