Daily Readings - Mon Nov 04 2019
Romans
29for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.30Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience,31so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God's mercy to you.32For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.33Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!34"Who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?"35"Who has ever given to God, that God should repay him?"36For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever! Amen.
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
In today's readings, we are presented with profound reflections on God's mercy and our call to humility and generosity. The first reading from Romans reminds us that God's gifts and call are irrevocable, and His mercy is available to all. Paul emphasizes the mystery of God's ways, which are beyond human comprehension, yet He showers mercy on everyone. The Gospel from Luke offers a practical lesson: Jesus teaches that true generosity lies in inviting those who cannot repay us, promising that our reward will be in the resurrection. This teaching challenges us to move beyond reciprocal relationships and embrace selfless love.
Both readings highlight the theme of God's universal mercy and our response to it. Romans provides the theological foundation, explaining that God's mercy is not limited and is available to all people. Luke then gives us a practical application of this mercy, urging us to extend it to others, especially those on the margins. This connection between the readings encourages us to live out God's mercy in our daily interactions.
Applying these teachings to our lives, we are called to humility and trust in God's plan. We should approach others with generosity, not expecting anything in return, mirroring God's unconditional love. The moral lesson here is clear: true humility and trust in God's providence lead us to live selflessly, confident that our ultimate reward comes from Him. Let us embrace this call to mercy and generosity, reflecting God's love in all we do.