Daily Readings - Sat Nov 14 2020
3 John
5Dear friend, you are faithful in what you are doing for the brothers, even though they are strangers to you.6They have told the church about your love. You will do well to send them on their way in a manner worthy of God.7It was for the sake of the Name that they went out, receiving no help from the pagans.8We ought therefore to show hospitality to such men so that we may work together for the truth.
Luke
1Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.2He said: "In a certain town there was a judge who neither feared God nor cared about men.3And there was a widow in that town who kept coming to him with the plea, 'Grant me justice against my adversary.'4"For some time he refused. But finally he said to himself, 'Even though I don't fear God or care about men,5yet because this widow keeps bothering me, I will see that she gets justice, so that she won't eventually wear me out with her coming!'"6And the Lord said, "Listen to what the unjust judge says.7And will not God bring about justice for his chosen ones, who cry out to him day and night? Will he keep putting them off?8I tell you, he will see that they get justice, and quickly. However, when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?"
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are reminded of the importance of faith, perseverance, and hospitality. The first reading from 3 John encourages us to act faithfully and generously toward our brothers and sisters in Christ, especially those who are traveling or in need. The author emphasizes the importance of supporting those who are spreading the Gospel, as their work is a testament to God’s truth. This passage calls us to live out our faith through tangible acts of charity and hospitality, reflecting the love of God in our interactions with others.
The Gospel from Luke presents us with the parable of the persistent widow, who repeatedly petitions the unjust judge for justice. Despite the judge’s initial refusal, the widow’s relentless pursuit eventually moves him to act. Jesus uses this parable to teach us about the necessity of persistent prayer. Just as the widow did not give up, we too must trust in God’s providence and continue to pray, even when our prayers seem unanswered. The parable also challenges us to reflect on our own faith—will we still be praying and trusting in God when he returns?
These readings are deeply connected. Both emphasize the importance of perseverance and trust in God’s plan. Just as the widow’s persistence ultimately leads to justice, our persistent prayer and faithful actions will bear fruit in God’s time. In our daily lives, we are called to live with the same determination and hope. Let us strive to be people of prayer, trusting that God hears us and will act. At the same time, let us be people of action, living out our faith by supporting one another and spreading the truth of the Gospel. May we grow in faith and perseverance, trusting that God will bring justice and peace to our world.