Daily Readings - Sat Sep 16 2023
1 Timothy
15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst.16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Luke
43"No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.44Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.45The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.46"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?47I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice.48He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.49But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete."
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the transformative power of faith and the importance of living out our beliefs with integrity. In the first reading from 1 Timothy, Paul humbly acknowledges himself as the foremost sinner, yet he has been transformed by God's mercy. This transformation is not just for him; it serves as an example for others to see God's patience and believe in Christ for eternal life. Paul's story is a testament to the profound impact of God's grace, reminding us that our faith journey is both personal and communal.
In the Gospel, Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and their fruit to emphasize that our actions reveal the true state of our hearts. He then illustrates the importance of building a strong spiritual foundation through the parable of the house built on rock versus on soil. This parable underscores the necessity of not only listening to Jesus' teachings but also living them out. Just as a house built on rock withstands storms, a life rooted in Christ's teachings endures life's challenges.
These readings together remind us that our faith must be more than superficial; it must transform us from within. As Paul's life was changed by God's mercy, so too can ours be. Jesus calls us to examine the depth of our commitment, ensuring that our actions reflect the good fruit of a heart transformed by His teachings. By building our lives on the solid foundation of Christ, we can navigate life's trials with resilience and integrity, living as true witnesses of God's love.