Daily Readings - Tue Oct 09 2018

¹³For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it.¹⁴I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers.¹⁵But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased¹⁶to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man,¹⁷nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus.¹⁸Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and stayed with him fifteen days.¹⁹I saw none of the other apostles--only James, the Lord's brother.²⁰I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.²¹Later I went to Syria and Cilicia.²²I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.²³They only heard the report: "The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy."²⁴And they praised God because of me.

Luke

Chapter 10

³⁸As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.³⁹She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said.⁴⁰But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"⁴¹"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things,⁴²but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Galatians 1:13-24 recounts Paul's remarkable transformation from a persecutor of the Church to a devout apostle. Paul's journey illustrates God's boundless grace and the power of divine calling. His experience teaches us that no one is beyond redemption and that our past does not define our future. Paul's trust in God's plan, rather than seeking human approval, underscores the importance of faith and obedience. The Gospel from Luke 10:38-42 presents the story of Martha and Mary, highlighting the balance between service and spiritual focus. Martha's diligence in serving is commendable, yet Jesus gently reminds her that Mary's choice to listen and be present with Him is equally valuable. This story teaches us to prioritize our relationship with God amidst life's busyness. It encourages us to create space for prayer and reflection, recognizing that spiritual nourishment is essential for a fulfilling life. Both readings invite us to reflect on our priorities and trust in God's grace. Like Paul, we are called to embrace our unique missions, trusting in God's plan. Like Mary, we are reminded to seek a deeper connection with God, ensuring that our spiritual life is not overshadowed by worldly tasks. As we navigate our daily lives, may we find balance in serving others while nurturing our souls through prayer and reflection, allowing God's grace to transform and guide us.