Daily Readings - Mon Nov 05 2018
Philippians
1If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion,2then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.3Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.4Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.
Luke
12Then Jesus said to his host, "When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid.13But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind,14and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the virtues of humility and selflessness. In the first reading from Philippians, St. Paul encourages the community to live in harmony, united by their faith in Christ. He reminds them to act with humility, not seeking personal gain or recognition, but rather to consider others before themselves. This passage emphasizes the importance of living as one body in Christ, where individual interests are set aside for the common good. The Apostle’s words are a call to authenticity and generosity of spirit, urging believers to embody the same mindset as Christ, who emptied himself for the sake of humanity.
In the Gospel, Jesus offers a practical lesson on humility and generosity. He advises against inviting only those who can repay us, whether through social status or material wealth. Instead, he calls us to extend our hospitality to those who are marginalized—the poor, the disabled, the lame, and the blind. This teaching challenges us to move beyond self-interest and societal expectations, embracing a way of life that prioritizes compassion and service. Jesus’ words remind us that true blessedness comes not from what we receive but from what we give, especially to those who have little to offer in return.
These readings are deeply connected, as both emphasize the importance of living selflessly and putting others first. St. Paul’s exhortation to humility and unity finds its practical expression in Jesus’ call to serve the most vulnerable. Together, they remind us that our faith is not just about what we believe but about how we live. In our daily lives, we can apply these teachings by seeking opportunities to serve others without expecting anything in return. Whether through small acts of kindness or greater commitments to justice, we are called to embody the humility and generosity of Christ. Let us strive to live in a way that reflects the love of God, knowing that our ultimate reward lies not in this world but in the resurrection of the just.