Daily Readings - Wed Oct 19 2022
Ephesians
1For this reason I, Paul, the prisoner of Christ Jesus for the sake of you Gentiles--2Surely you have heard about the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you,3that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation, as I have already written briefly.4In reading this, then, you will be able to understand my insight into the mystery of Christ,5which was not made known to men in other generations as it has now been revealed by the Spirit to God's holy apostles and prophets.6This mystery is that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel, members together of one body, and sharers together in the promise in Christ Jesus.7I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God's grace given me through the working of his power.8Although I am less than the least of all God's people, this grace was given me: to preach to the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ,9and to make plain to everyone the administration of this mystery, which for ages past was kept hidden in God, who created all things.10His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms,11according to his eternal purpose which he accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord.12In him and through faith in him we may approach God with freedom and confidence.
Luke
39But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into.40You also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."41Peter asked, "Lord, are you telling this parable to us, or to everyone?"42The Lord answered, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their food allowance at the proper time?43It will be good for that servant whom the master finds doing so when he returns.44I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.45But suppose the servant says to himself, 'My master is taking a long time in coming,' and he then begins to beat the menservants and maidservants and to eat and drink and get drunk.46The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the unbelievers.47"That servant who knows his master's will and does not get ready or does not do what his master wants will be beaten with many blows.48But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful reminders of God’s grace and our responsibility to live with faithfulness and preparedness. The first reading from Ephesians reveals Paul’s profound humility and gratitude as he reflects on his mission to the Gentiles. Once a persecutor of the Church, Paul was transformed by God’s grace and entrusted with the task of proclaiming the Gospel to those who were once strangers to God’s covenant. He emphasizes that this mystery of unity—Jews and Gentiles together as co-heirs in Christ—was hidden for ages but has now been revealed through the Church. Paul’s words invite us to marvel at the boundless wisdom and generosity of God, who has entrusted us with the riches of Christ’s grace.
The Gospel from Luke complements this theme with Jesus’ parable of the faithful steward. The parable warns us to be vigilant and prepared for the Lord’s return, for we do not know the hour when he will come. Jesus emphasizes the importance of living with integrity and responsibility, especially for those who have been entrusted with much. The unfaithful servant who neglects his duties and indulges in sin will face judgment, while the faithful steward who serves with prudence and care will be rewarded. This teaching challenges us to examine how we are using the gifts, talents, and opportunities God has given us. Are we living as if the Lord might return at any moment, or are we growing complacent and distracted by the cares of the world?
These readings call us to reflect on our spiritual lives and our role as stewards of God’s grace. Like Paul, we are called to share the Gospel with others, not because of our own worthiness, but because of God’s mercy and trust in us. Like the faithful steward, we are to live with purpose and integrity, knowing that our actions have consequences. Let us ask ourselves: Am I using the gifts and resources God has given me to build up the Kingdom? Am I prepared to give an account of my life when the Lord returns? May we embrace the wisdom of these readings and strive to live with faith, gratitude, and a deep trust in God’s plan.