Daily Readings - Tue Sep 19 2017
1 Timothy
1Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task.2Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach,3not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money.4He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect.5(If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?)6He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil.7He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap.8Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain.9They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience.10They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons.11In the same way, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything.12A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well.13Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.
Luke
11Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him.12As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out--the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her.13When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, "Don't cry."14Then he went up and touched the coffin, and those carrying it stood still. He said, "Young man, I say to you, get up!"15The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.16They were all filled with awe and praised God. "A great prophet has appeared among us," they said. "God has come to help his people."17This news about Jesus spread throughout Judea and the surrounding country.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore the essence of leadership and compassion through the eyes of faith. The first reading from 1 Timothy outlines the qualities expected of church leaders—blamelessness, hospitality, and the ability to manage one's household. These qualities are not just administrative but reflect a deeper moral integrity, suggesting that true leadership stems from a life well-lived and a heart committed to serving others.
The Gospel from Luke presents a vivid narrative of Jesus's compassion. In raising the widow's son, Jesus embodies the leadership qualities described in 1 Timothy. His actions are driven by empathy and a divine mandate to serve. This miracle is not just a display of power but a testament to Jesus's role as a leader who serves with love and compassion.
These readings remind us that leadership, whether in the church or in our daily lives, is about serving with integrity and compassion. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by example, demonstrating love and care in our interactions. Whether in our families, workplaces, or communities, we are invited to embrace the qualities Jesus modeled—compassion, integrity, and selfless service. Let us strive to lead with hearts that reflect God's love, transforming our world through our actions and faith.