Daily Readings - Wed Nov 19 2025
Luke
11And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.12He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.13And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.14But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.15And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.16Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained ten pounds.17And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant: because thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over ten cities.18And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.19And he said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.20And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:21For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.22And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:23Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?24And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.25And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)26For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.27But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.28And when he had thus spoken, he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.
Sermon
The readings today present powerful lessons about faith, perseverance, and responsibility. In the first reading from 2 Maccabees, we encounter a mother and her seven sons who endure immense suffering rather than betray their faith. The king, Antiochus, tries to force them to eat pork, which violates Jewish law, but they refuse, trusting in God’s promise of resurrection. The mother’s courage and devotion are remarkable as she encourages her sons to remain faithful even in the face of death. Her words remind us that our ultimate hope is in God, who created us and will restore us to life. This story highlights the strength of faith and the importance of standing firm in the face of persecution or temptation.
In the Gospel, Jesus tells a parable about a nobleman who entrusts his servants with money before going away to receive a kingdom. The servants are expected to use this money wisely and productively while he is away. When the nobleman returns, he rewards those who have been faithful and fruitful, but he condemns the servant who out of fear did nothing with the money. This parable teaches us about the responsibility that comes with the gifts and talents God has given us. We are called to be good stewards, using our resources to serve others and to build up the kingdom of God. The parable also warns us against fear and complacency, urging us to take risks and trust in God’s providence.
Both readings challenge us to reflect on how we live out our faith in daily life. The mother in 2 Maccabees shows us the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when the road is difficult. The parable in Luke reminds us that we are called to be active and faithful in using the gifts we have been given. In our own lives, we may face challenges or feel tempted to take the easy way out, but these readings encourage us to remain steadfast, to trust in God’s promises, and to use our talents and resources to serve others. Let us strive to live with courage, faith, and generosity, knowing that our ultimate reward comes from God.