Daily Readings - Tue Oct 17 2023
Romans
16For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.17For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.18For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;19Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.20For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:21Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.22Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,23And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.24Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:25Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
Luke
37And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.38And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.39And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.40Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?41But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful reflections on the human condition and our relationship with God. The first reading from Romans reminds us of the transformative power of the Gospel, which reveals the justice of God and calls us to live by faith. Yet, it also warns us about the consequences of turning away from God, as humanity often exchanges the truth for lies and worships creation rather than the Creator. This passage invites us to examine our own hearts and consider whether we are living in accordance with the divine truth revealed to us.
The Gospel from Luke complements this message by highlighting the tension between external appearances and internal purity. Jesus critiques the Pharisee for focusing on outward cleanliness while neglecting the inner corruption of greed and injustice. He calls us to recognize that true purity comes not from rituals but from a heart that seeks justice and compassion. This teaching challenges us to look beyond superficial piety and instead cultivate a life of integrity, where our actions reflect the love and mercy of God.
Together, these readings remind us that faith is not just about what we profess but how we live. The Gospel has the power to transform us, but this transformation must begin within. Let us ask ourselves: Are we more concerned with appearances, or are we striving to live with hearts that are pure, just, and faithful? May we turn to God with humility, acknowledging our need for grace, and may our lives bear witness to the truth and love of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it.