Daily Readings - Wed Nov 22 2023
Luke
11And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.12He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.13And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.14But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.15And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.16Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.17And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.18And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.19And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.20And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:21For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.22And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:23Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?24And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.25And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)26For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.27But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.28And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful themes of faithfulness, responsibility, and trust in God's plan. The first reading from 2 Maccabees tells the story of a mother and her seven sons who endure torture rather than renounce their faith. Despite the brutal circumstances, the mother's unwavering faith and trust in God's promise of resurrection inspire her sons to remain loyal to their beliefs. This narrative highlights the strength of conviction and the hope of eternal life that sustains believers in the face of adversity.
The Gospel from Luke presents a parable about a nobleman who entrusts his servants with resources before departing to claim his kingdom. Upon his return, he evaluates their stewardship, rewarding those who multiplied their resources and punishing the one who failed to act. This parable emphasizes the importance of being faithful stewards of the gifts and talents God has entrusted to us. It also underscores the consequences of fear and inaction, contrasting with the nobleman's harsh dealings with those who reject his authority.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on faithfulness and trust in God. The mother in 2 Maccabees exemplifies trust in God's plan, even in suffering, while the parable in Luke calls us to responsibly use the gifts we've been given. In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to remain faithful, whether facing trials or managing our talents. They remind us that our actions have consequences and that trusting in God's plan, even when uncertain, is essential. Let us strive to be faithful stewards, trusting in God's providence and living with hope and courage.