Daily Readings - Sat Oct 09 2021
Joel
12"Let the nations be roused; let them advance into the Valley of Jehoshaphat, for there I will sit to judge all the nations on every side.13Swing the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, trample the grapes, for the winepress is full and the vats overflow- so great is their wickedness!"14Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision.15The sun and moon will be darkened, and the stars no longer shine.16The LORD will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem; the earth and the sky will tremble. But the LORD will be a refuge for his people, a stronghold for the people of Israel.17"Then you will know that I, the LORD your God, dwell in Zion, my holy hill. Jerusalem will be holy; never again will foreigners invade her.18"In that day the mountains will drip new wine, and the hills will flow with milk; all the ravines of Judah will run with water. A fountain will flow out of the LORD's house and will water the valley of acacias.19But Egypt will be desolate, Edom a desert waste, because of violence done to the people of Judah, in whose land they shed innocent blood.20Judah will be inhabited forever and Jerusalem through all generations.21Their bloodguilt, which I have not pardoned, I will pardon." The LORD dwells in Zion!
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound messages about God's judgment, mercy, and the true nature of blessedness. The first reading from Joel vividly describes the Day of the Lord, a time of reckoning where nations are judged in the valley of Jehoshaphat. Joel paints a dramatic scene of cosmic upheaval—darkened sun, moon, and stars—and a fountain from the Lord's house bringing life to a desolate land. This apocalyptic vision underscores God's justice and His ultimate restoration of Israel, where Judea will flourish eternally.
The Gospel shifts our focus from external judgment to internal faith. When a woman praises Jesus' mother, He redirects her attention, emphasizing that true blessedness comes not from physical ties but from hearing and keeping God's word. This exchange highlights the importance of spiritual obedience over earthly connections, inviting us to reflect on our commitment to living according to God's teachings.
Together, these readings remind us that while God's judgment is inevitable, His mercy and restoration are available to those who align their lives with His will. As we navigate our daily lives, let us examine our actions and hearts, ensuring they reflect a genuine faith. The truest blessedness lies not in worldly comforts but in faithfully following God's word, which guides us toward a life of purpose and righteousness.