Daily Readings - Wed Sep 29 2021
First Reading - Revelation 12.7-12a or Daniel 7.9-10, 13-14
Revelation
7And there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon, and the dragon and his angels fought back.8But he was not strong enough, and they lost their place in heaven.9The great dragon was hurled down--that ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, who leads the whole world astray. He was hurled to the earth, and his angels with him.10Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.11They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.12Therefore rejoice, you heavens and you who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, because the devil has gone down to you! He is filled with fury, because he knows that his time is short."
Daniel
9"As I looked, "thrones were set in place, and the Ancient of Days took his seat. His clothing was as white as snow; the hair of his head was white like wool. His throne was flaming with fire, and its wheels were all ablaze.10A river of fire was flowing, coming out from before him. Thousands upon thousands attended him; ten thousand times ten thousand stood before him. The court was seated, and the books were opened.13"In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.14He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.
John
47When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false."48"How do you know me?" Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, "I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you."49Then Nathanael declared, "Rabbi, you are the Son of God; you are the King of Israel."50Jesus said, "You believe because I told you I saw you under the fig tree. You shall see greater things than that."51He then added, "I tell you the truth, you shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending on the Son of Man."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on the nature of spiritual warfare and the triumph of faith. The first reading from Revelation 12:7-12a depicts a cosmic battle between Michael and the dragon, symbolizing Satan’s defeat. This passage reassures early Christian communities, persecuted and enduring trials, that their ultimate victory is secured through the blood of the Lamb and their steadfast testimony. The Gospel of John 1:47-51 presents a personal encounter where Jesus reveals His divine insight to Nathanael, who, in awe, professes faith in Jesus as the Son of God. Jesus promises Nathanael that he will witness even greater things, symbolizing the ongoing revelation of God’s work in believers’ lives.
Both readings, though distinct in context, are united by themes of spiritual conflict and divine triumph. Revelation’s apocalyptic vision addresses the broader struggle between good and evil, offering hope to the afflicted. John’s narrative, set in the context of Jesus’ ministry, illustrates the personal call to faith and discipleship. Together, they remind us that our faith is not passive but active, trusting in God’s power and revelation in our lives.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to recognize the spiritual battles we face, yet to trust in Christ’s victory. Like Nathanael, we are called to embrace faith and openness to God’s revelations. The moral lesson is clear: trust in God’s power, remain faithful, and be open to His workings in our lives. Through Christ, we have already overcome, and we can face challenges with hope and faith, knowing His greater works are yet to be seen.