Daily Readings - Mon Sep 24 2018
Proverbs
27Do not withhold good from those who deserve it, when it is in your power to act.28Do not say to your neighbor, "Come back later; I'll give it tomorrow"- when you now have it with you.29Do not plot harm against your neighbor, who lives trustfully near you.30Do not accuse a man for no reason- when he has done you no harm.31Do not envy a violent man or choose any of his ways,32for the LORD detests a perverse man but takes the upright into his confidence.33The LORD's curse is on the house of the wicked, but he blesses the home of the righteous.34He mocks proud mockers but gives grace to the humble.
Luke
16"No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light.17For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.18Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the importance of living justly and being attentive to God’s word. The first reading from Proverbs encourages us to act with integrity, not withholding good from others and avoiding evil deeds. It emphasizes the wisdom of doing good when we can and not plotting against others, highlighting the consequences of our actions. The Gospel from Luke uses the metaphor of a candle to illustrate that our good deeds should be visible, and it stresses the importance of being receptive to God’s message, as our response affects the blessings we receive.
Both readings, while different in focus, share a common theme of responsibility—Proverbs focusing on outward actions and Luke on inward receptivity. Proverbs is part of the wisdom literature, offering practical advice for a virtuous life, while Luke’s passage is part of Jesus’ teachings, using a simple metaphor to convey deep spiritual truths. Together, they remind us that our actions and attentiveness have spiritual consequences.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to be mindful of our actions, ensuring we do good when possible and remain open to God’s word. By living justly and attentively, we align ourselves with God’s will, fostering spiritual growth and a life of integrity. The moral lesson here is clear: our actions and receptiveness shape our spiritual journey, guiding us toward a life of justice and grace.