Daily Readings - Wed Oct 13 2021
Romans
1You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.2Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth.3So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment?4Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?5But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed.6God "will give to each person according to what he has done."7To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.8But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger.9There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile;10but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.11For God does not show favoritism.
Luke
42"Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God. You should have practiced the latter without leaving the former undone.43"Woe to you Pharisees, because you love the most important seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces.44"Woe to you, because you are like unmarked graves, which men walk over without knowing it."45One of the experts in the law answered him, "Teacher, when you say these things, you insult us also."46Jesus replied, "And you experts in the law, woe to you, because you load people down with burdens they can hardly carry, and you yourselves will not lift one finger to help them.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about hypocrisy and the true nature of faith. The first reading from Romans reminds us that God’s judgment is fair and impartial. Paul warns against hypocrisy, urging us not to judge others for actions we ourselves commit. He emphasizes that God will reward those who do good and punish those who do evil, regardless of their background. This passage calls us to self-reflection, urging us to align our actions with our beliefs and avoid the trap of hypocrisy.
The Gospel from Luke complements this message as Jesus criticizes the Pharisees for their focus on outward appearances rather than inner righteousness. He condemns their love for public recognition and their neglect of justice and love. When a lawyer objects, Jesus extends his criticism to them, highlighting their failure to alleviate the burdens they impose on others. This passage underscores the importance of living out our faith authentically, ensuring that our actions reflect our values without seeking praise.
Together, these readings remind us that true faith requires more than outward rituals; it demands justice, love, and humility. As we reflect on our own lives, let us ask ourselves: Do we practice what we preach? Are we guilty of hypocrisy? Let us strive to live with integrity, focusing on the substance of our faith rather than its appearance. May we embrace the call to live authentically, aligning our actions with our beliefs, and may we humbly serve others without seeking recognition.