Daily Readings - Wed Oct 09 2024
Galatians
1Then fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with me also.2And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run, in vain.7But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the uncircumcision was committed unto me, as the gospel of the circumcision was unto Peter;8For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:)9And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.10Only they would that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do.11But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed.12For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.13And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.14But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?
Luke
1And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.2And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.3Give us day by day our daily bread.4And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of unity, inclusion, and the essence of prayer. In the first reading from Galatians, Paul recounts his journey within the early Christian community, highlighting the debate over whether Gentiles needed to adopt Jewish customs to be part of the church. Paul's stance is clear: the Gospel is for all, and he confronts Peter for his hypocrisy in distancing himself from Gentile believers when under pressure. This passage underscores the importance of consistency between our faith and actions, emphasizing that true faith should not waver under social pressures.
The Gospel from Luke presents the Lord's Prayer, a timeless lesson on how to pray. Jesus teaches us to address God as Father, seek His will, ask for our needs, and request forgiveness and guidance. This prayer is not just individual but communal, reflecting our shared humanity and the need for reconciliation. It reminds us that prayer should be humble, focused on God's will, and mindful of our responsibilities to each other.
These readings together call us to live out our faith with integrity and inclusivity. Just as Paul advocated for the Gentiles' inclusion, we should work towards unity and acceptance in our communities. The Lord's Prayer teaches us to pray with sincerity and a communal spirit, recognizing our dependence on God and each other. Let us strive to embody these lessons, ensuring our actions reflect our beliefs and our prayers nurture a deeper connection with God and our neighbors.