Daily Readings - Mon Jun 24 2024
Isaiah
1Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name.2And he hath made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he hid me, and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;3And said unto me, Thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified.4Then I said, I have laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nought, and in vain: yet surely my judgment is with the LORD, and my work with my God.5And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb to be his servant, to bring Jacob again to him, Though Israel be not gathered, yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my God shall be my strength.6And he said, It is a light thing that thou shouldest be my servant to raise up the tribes of Jacob, and to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest be my salvation unto the end of the earth.
Acts
22And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.23Of this man's seed hath God according to his promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:24When John had first preached before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of Israel.25And as John fulfilled his course, he said, Whom think ye that I am? I am not he. But, behold, there cometh one after me, whose shoes of his feet I am not worthy to loose.26Men and brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God, to you is the word of this salvation sent.
Luke
57Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.58And her neighbours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.59And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child; and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.60And his mother answered and said, Not so; but he shall be called John.61And they said unto her, There is none of thy kindred that is called by this name.62And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.63And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John. And they marvelled all.64And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue loosed, and he spake, and praised God.65And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of Judaea.66And all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall this be! And the hand of the Lord was with him.80And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter three distinct yet interconnected narratives that illuminate the theme of divine calling and mission. The first reading from Isaiah introduces us to a prophet who, from the womb, is called to be a light to the Gentiles. Despite initial doubts, he finds strength in God's assurance, recognizing his role in a larger plan. The second reading from Acts, spoken by Paul, bridges the Old Testament prophecy with the New Testament reality. Paul highlights King David and the lineage of Jesus, emphasizing John the Baptist's role as a precursor to the Messiah. The Gospel from Luke vividly portrays the birth of John the Baptist, where his naming signifies his unique mission, and his growth in the wilderness prepares him for his divine role.
These readings weave together the tapestry of God's plan, revealing a progression from prophecy to fulfillment. Isaiah's servant becomes the light to the nations, John the Baptist prepares the way, and Jesus embodies the salvation. Each figure humbly accepts their calling, trusting in God's plan despite uncertainties. Their stories remind us that our lives are part of a larger narrative, where our unique callings contribute to God's greater purpose.
In our daily lives, we are invited to reflect on our own callings. Like Isaiah, we may doubt our abilities, but God's assurance can strengthen us. Like John, we may face unexpected paths, yet our trust in God's plan can guide us. As we navigate our own missions, whether in family, work, or community, we are reminded to stay open to God's voice and trust in His timing. Let us embrace our roles with humility and courage, knowing that our efforts, however small they may seem, are part of a grander divine plan. In doing so, we become lights in the world, reflecting God's love and grace to all.