Daily Readings - Fri Oct 18 2024
2 Timothy
9Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:10For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.11Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.12And Tychicus have I sent to Ephesus.13The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments.14Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works:15Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words.16At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.17Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion.
Luke
1After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.2Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.3Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.4Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no man by the way.5And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to this house.6And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.7And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.8And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you:9And heal the sick that are therein, and say unto them, The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two powerful reflections on trust, perseverance, and the call to serve. The first reading from 2 Timothy reveals Paul’s isolation and weariness as he faces the challenges of his missionary work. Despite being abandoned by many, including Demas, Paul remains steadfast in his faith, trusting in God’s providence. He asks for the companionship of Luke and the support of others, showing his human need for help, but ultimately relies on God’s strength. The reading reminds us that even in times of loneliness or adversity, God remains our constant companion and source of strength.
The Gospel from Luke presents a very different yet complementary scene. Jesus sends out 72 disciples ahead of him, instructing them to go forth like lambs among wolves, trusting in God’s providence rather than their own resources. They are to depend on the hospitality of others and to proclaim the nearness of the kingdom of God. This mission is not about self-sufficiency but about radical trust in God and openness to the people they encounter. The disciples are called to live simply, to serve generously, and to bring peace and healing to those they meet.
Both readings invite us to reflect on our own relationship with God and our response to the call to serve. Like Paul, we may face challenges and feel isolated at times, but we are reminded that God’s grace is sufficient. Like the disciples in Luke, we are called to step out in faith, trusting that God will provide what we need. These readings encourage us to live with courage, humility, and generosity, knowing that our efforts, though small, contribute to the greater work of God’s kingdom. Let us pray for the grace to persevere in faith, to trust in God’s plan, and to serve others with love and compassion.