Daily Readings - Tue Oct 22 2019
Romans
12Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all men, because all sinned--13for before the law was given, sin was in the world. But sin is not taken into account when there is no law.14Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who was a pattern of the one to come.15But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God's grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!16Again, the gift of God is not like the result of the one man's sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification.17For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.18Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men.19For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.20The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more,21so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Luke
35"Be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning,36like men waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet, so that when he comes and knocks they can immediately open the door for him.37It will be good for those servants whose master finds them watching when he comes. I tell you the truth, he will dress himself to serve, will have them recline at the table and will come and wait on them.38It will be good for those servants whose master finds them ready, even if he comes in the second or third watch of the night.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the profound interplay between sin, grace, and our relationship with God. In the first reading from Romans, St. Paul contrasts the legacy of Adam, through whom sin and death entered the world, with the gift of Christ, who brings justification and life. This passage reminds us that while sin has its consequences, God’s grace is far more abundant and transformative. The second reading from Luke’s Gospel calls us to vigilance and readiness, urging us to live as servants who are prepared to welcome the Lord at any moment. Together, these readings challenge us to embrace the gift of grace while living with purpose and watchfulness.
The context of today’s readings is deeply rooted in the theological themes of sin, redemption, and discipleship. In Romans, Paul is addressing the early Christian community, explaining how Christ’s obedience undoes the harm caused by Adam’s disobedience. This passage emphasizes the universal nature of sin and the even greater universality of God’s grace. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus teaches his disciples about the importance of being prepared for his return, using the metaphor of servants waiting for their master. This parable emphasizes the need for faithfulness and attentiveness in our daily lives.
These readings are connected by their focus on the transformative power of God’s grace and the call to live with intentionality. While Romans highlights the contrast between sin and grace, Luke’s Gospel challenges us to live in a way that reflects our gratitude for that grace. The moral lesson here is clear: we are called to trust in God’s mercy while striving to live as faithful stewards of the gifts we have received. By staying vigilant and rooted in grace, we can face life’s challenges with hope and confidence.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, let us remember that God’s grace is always available to us, even in our struggles and shortcomings. Let us also embrace the call to live with purpose, knowing that our actions have consequences and that we are called to be ready to meet the Lord at any moment. May we trust in the abundance of God’s grace and strive to live as faithful servants, prepared to welcome him into our lives.