Daily Readings - Tue Oct 31 2023
Romans
18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.19For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.20For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,21Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.22For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.23And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.24For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?25But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.
Luke
18Then said he, Unto what is the kingdom of God like? and whereunto shall I resemble it?19It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.20And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of God?21It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about hope, growth, and the transformative power of God’s Kingdom. The first reading from Romans reminds us that our current struggles, though real, are overshadowed by the future glory that awaits us. Paul reassures us that creation itself is groaning in anticipation of redemption, and we, as believers, are called to wait patiently, trusting in the hope that sustains us. This hope is not in what we see, but in what we cannot yet see, a truth that strengthens our spirits amidst life’s challenges.
The Gospel parables from Luke offer vivid imagery of the Kingdom of God. The mustard seed, small yet mighty, and the leaven, quietly transformative, teach us that God’s work often begins inconspicuously but leads to profound impact. These parables encourage us to trust in the slow, steady growth of God’s grace in our lives and in the world. Just as the seed grows into a tree and the leaven permeates the dough, our faith, though it may start small, can influence and transform those around us.
Together, these readings invite us to embrace patience and trust in God’s plan. They remind us that our struggles are temporary and part of a larger narrative of redemption. As we navigate life’s challenges, we are called to nurture our faith, allowing it to grow and flourish. Just as the mustard seed and leaven bring life and nourishment, our trust in God can have a ripple effect, touching hearts and transforming lives. Let us hold fast to hope, knowing that even in the darkest moments, God is at work, guiding us toward a future filled with glory and grace.