Daily Readings - Fri Oct 20 2017
Romans
1What then shall we say that Abraham, our forefather, discovered in this matter?2If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about--but not before God.3What does the Scripture say? "Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness."4Now when a man works, his wages are not credited to him as a gift, but as an obligation.5However, to the man who does not work but trusts God who justifies the wicked, his faith is credited as righteousness.6David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:7"Blessed are they whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered.8Blessed is the man whose sin the Lord will never count against him."
Luke
1Meanwhile, when a crowd of many thousands had gathered, so that they were trampling on one another, Jesus began to speak first to his disciples, saying: "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.2There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.3What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs.4"I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more.5But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.6Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God.7Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter profound truths about faith, grace, and the nature of God’s justice. The first reading from Romans reminds us that Abraham, our father in faith, was justified not by his works but by his belief in God’s promise. This highlights the central Christian teaching that salvation is a gift of grace, not something we earn through our actions. The Psalm and the Gospel then build on this theme, urging us to trust in God’s providence and to live with integrity, unafraid of earthly powers, because we are cherished by our heavenly Father.
The readings are deeply connected, as they all point to the transformative power of faith and the call to live authentically. In Romans, Paul contrasts faith and works, emphasizing that true righteousness comes from trusting in God’s mercy. In the Gospel, Jesus warns against hypocrisy, reminding us that our true selves will be revealed, and He encourages us to fear not the opinions of others but the judgment of God. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on how we live out our faith—whether we do so with sincerity and trust in God’s love.
As we apply these teachings to our daily lives, let us ask ourselves: Do we rely on God’s grace, or do we try to earn His favor through superficial actions? Are we living with the kind of integrity that reflects our faith, or are we hiding behind masks of hypocrisy? Jesus assures us that we are worth more than many sparrows, and every detail of our lives is known and loved by God. Let us embrace this truth and live with courage, trusting that His justice and mercy will guide us. May we, like Abraham, be people of faith, and may our lives bear witness to the transformative power of God’s love.