Daily Readings - Thu Oct 23 2025
Romans
19I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.20For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.21What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.22But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.23For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Luke
49I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?50But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished!51Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division:52For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three.53The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound transformation that comes with following Christ and the challenges that accompany it. The first reading from Romans speaks of the shift from a life of sin to one of justice and sanctification. Paul emphasizes that just as we once surrendered our bodies to serve impurity, we are now called to yield ourselves to God’s justice. This transformation is not merely about behavior but about a radical change in our very being, leading to eternal life. The second reading from Luke presents a more intense and provocative message. Jesus speaks of casting fire upon the earth, a fire that will bring division even among family members. He makes it clear that His mission is not to bring peace but to disrupt the status quo, calling us to stand firm in our commitment to Him, even when it leads to conflict.
These readings, though seemingly contrasting, are deeply connected. Both invite us to reflect on the nature of our relationship with God and the world. Paul’s letter highlights the internal transformation required to live as children of God, while Luke’s Gospel underscores the external consequences of that transformation. Jesus’ words about division remind us that living a life of justice and sanctification will not always be easy or popular. It may require us to stand apart from those around us, even those closest to us, as we align ourselves with God’s will.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, we are called to examine our own commitment to living as servants of God. Are we willing to embrace the challenges that come with following Christ? Are we prepared to stand firm in our faith, even when it leads to division or discomfort? The moral lesson here is clear: our ultimate goal is eternal life, and this requires us to surrender ourselves fully to God’s justice and sanctification. Let us pray for the strength to embrace this transformative journey, trusting that the fire of God’s love will purify and guide us, even in the face of adversity.