Daily Readings - Tue Sep 05 2017
1 Thessalonians
1Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you,2for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night.3While people are saying, "Peace and safety," destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.4But you, brothers, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief.5You are all sons of the light and sons of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.6So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be alert and self-controlled.9For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.10He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him.11Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.
Luke
31Then he went down to Capernaum, a town in Galilee, and on the Sabbath began to teach the people.32They were amazed at his teaching, because his message had authority.33In the synagogue there was a man possessed by a demon, an evil spirit. He cried out at the top of his voice,34"Ha! What do you want with us, Jesus of Nazareth? Have you come to destroy us? I know who you are--the Holy One of God!"35"Be quiet!" Jesus said sternly. "Come out of him!" Then the demon threw the man down before them all and came out without injuring him.36All the people were amazed and said to each other, "What is this teaching? With authority and power he gives orders to evil spirits and they come out!"37And the news about him spread throughout the surrounding area.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the importance of vigilance and trust in God's plan. The first reading from 1 Thessalonians urges us to be prepared for the Day of the Lord, which comes unexpectedly, like a thief in the night. It encourages us to stay alert, as we are children of light, and to support one another in our faith journey. The Gospel from Luke illustrates Jesus' authority and power as He casts out a demon, demonstrating His divine power and the reason for our hope.
The context of these readings is rooted in early Christian communities preparing for the Second Coming and witnessing the manifestation of Jesus' divine authority. The Thessalonians were reassured that their destiny is salvation through Jesus, not wrath, while the people in Capernaum experienced firsthand Jesus' power over evil spirits. These events highlight the contrast between darkness and light, emphasizing our role as believers to live with awareness and trust in God's plan.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to remain vigilant and mindful, trusting in Jesus' authority. Just as Jesus demonstrated power over evil, we can face life's challenges with confidence in His presence. We are called to live as children of light, supporting one another and staying alert, knowing that our ultimate hope is in salvation through Christ. This teaches us to approach each day with purpose and trust, embodying the light of Christ in our actions and interactions.