Daily Catholic Mass Readings for November 15, 2023
First Reading: Wisdom 6.1-11
This reading is not available in the KJV version. Visit the CPDV version to view the reading.
Psalm 82
1God standeth in the congregation of the mighty; he judgeth among the gods.2How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the wicked? Selah.3Defend the poor and fatherless: do justice to the afflicted and needy.4Deliver the poor and needy: rid them out of the hand of the wicked.5They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.6I have said, Ye are gods; and all of you are children of the most High.7But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.8Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit all nations.
Gospel: Luke 17.11-19
11And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.12And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:13And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.14And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.15And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,16And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.17And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?18There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.19And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the profound responsibilities that come with the gifts we receive from God. The Book of Wisdom cautions those in power, emphasizing that true wisdom surpasses any earthly authority. It warns that power is a divine trust, and those who wield it will face a stricter judgment. This passage serves as a timeless reminder to leaders and all believers to act justly and humbly, recognizing that their strength comes from God.
The Gospel of Luke complements this message with the story of the ten lepers. Jesus heals all of them, but only the Samaritan returns to express gratitude. This foreigner, often considered an outsider, exemplifies true faith and humility. His thankful heart leads to a deeper healing, highlighting the importance of recognizing and thanking God for His blessings in our lives.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own responses to God's gifts. Whether we hold positions of power or experience personal blessings, we are called to gratitude and humility. Let us strive to acknowledge God's presence in our lives, not just in our successes but also in our struggles. By doing so, we may find true healing and a deeper relationship with Him.