Daily Readings - Mon Nov 04 2024

Philippians

1If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,2Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.3Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.4Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.

Luke

12Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.13But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:14And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.

Sermon

In today's readings, we are reminded of the transformative power of humility and generosity. The passage from Philippians urges us to embrace unity and selflessness, encouraging us to consider others before ourselves. This call to humility is not just a moral guideline but a spiritual practice that binds us together as a community. Similarly, in Luke's Gospel, Jesus challenges us to rethink our hospitality, inviting those who cannot repay us, which reflects the kingdom's inverted values where true reward lies in heaven. Both readings highlight a life lived for others, emphasizing that our actions should be motivated by love and trust in God. Paul's letter to the Philippians was written to a community facing division, urging them to unity through humility. Jesus' teaching in Luke occurred during a meal, where He emphasized the importance of generosity without expectation of return. Together, these passages call us to a selfless existence, where our focus shifts from earthly rewards to eternal ones. In our daily lives, we can apply these teachings by practicing humility in our interactions and being generous without expecting anything in return. This shift in focus allows us to reflect God's love and trust in His promise of eternal rewards. The moral lesson here is clear: living with humility and generosity transforms us and others, drawing us closer to God's heart.