Daily Readings - Fri Sep 22 2017
1 Timothy
2Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect for them because they are brothers. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those who benefit from their service are believers, and dear to them. These are the things you are to teach and urge on them.3If anyone teaches false doctrines and does not agree to the sound instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ and to godly teaching,4he is conceited and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy interest in controversies and quarrels about words that result in envy, strife, malicious talk, evil suspicions5and constant friction between men of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain.6But godliness with contentment is great gain.7For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.8But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.9People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction.10For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.11But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness.12Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.
Luke
1After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him,2and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out;3Joanna the wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod's household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected messages that guide us in our Christian journey. The first reading from 1 Timothy 6:2c-12 emphasizes the importance of serving others with humility and integrity, particularly within the context of faith. It warns against the pitfalls of greed and false teachings, urging us instead to embrace contentment and pursue virtues such as justice, piety, and charity. The passage reminds us that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in living a life grounded in faith and moral integrity.
The Gospel from Luke 8:1-3 presents a vivid scene of Jesus's ministry, highlighting the diverse community that supported his mission. The presence of women like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who provided for Jesus's needs, underscores the value of selfless service and the inclusive nature of the Kingdom of God. This passage invites us to reflect on how we, like these women, can contribute to the greater good through our unique gifts and resources.
Together, these readings remind us of the transformative power of service and contentment. In a world often driven by greed and individualism, they call us to reevaluate our priorities and align them with the teachings of Christ. By embracing humility, avoiding the snares of wealth, and supporting one another in faith, we can live out the Gospel in our daily lives, fostering a community rooted in love and mutual support. Let us strive to embody the virtues extolled in today's readings, trusting that true fulfillment comes not from material wealth but from a life dedicated to serving God and others.