Daily Readings - Wed Nov 11 2020
Titus
1Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good,2to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.3At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.4But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared,5he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,6whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior,7so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.
Luke
11Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee.12As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance13and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!"14When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed.15One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.16He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him--and he was a Samaritan.17Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?18Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?"19Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well."
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the transformative power of gratitude and faith. The first reading from Titus encourages believers to live virtuous lives, obeying authorities and avoiding malice, while emphasizing that our salvation comes not from our deeds but from God's mercy. This mercy regenerates us through the Holy Spirit, making us heirs of eternal life. The Gospel from Luke narrates Jesus healing ten lepers, with only one returning to express thanks, a Samaritan, whose faith Jesus commends.
Both readings highlight the importance of gratitude. Titus underscores being mindful of God's mercy, while Luke's Gospel illustrates the impact of acknowledging God's blessings. The Samaritan's gratitude stands out, teaching us that true faith is accompanied by thanksgiving. This reflects the broader theme of recognizing God's grace in our lives, regardless of our background or circumstances.
In our daily lives, we are called to cultivate gratitude, recognizing the blessings we often overlook. Like the Samaritan, we should humbly acknowledge God's mercy, allowing it to transform us. This practice not only deepens our faith but also inspires us to live with compassion and kindness. Let us remember that gratitude is not just a response but a way of life, reflecting our trust in God's providence and love.