Daily Catholic Mass Readings for October 31, 2023
First Reading: Romans 8.18-25
18I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.19The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.20For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope21that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God.22We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time.23Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies.24For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what he already has?25But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.
Psalm 126
1When the LORD brought back the captives to Zion, we were like men who dreamed.2Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said among the nations, "The LORD has done great things for them."3The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy.4Restore our fortunes, O LORD, like streams in the Negev.5Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy.6He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him.
Gospel: Luke 13.18-21
18Then Jesus asked, "What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to?19It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds of the air perched in its branches."20Again he asked, "What shall I compare the kingdom of God to?21It is like yeast that a woman took and mixed into a large amount of flour until it worked all through the dough."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful messages about hope, growth, and the transformative power of God’s Kingdom. The first reading from Romans reminds us that our current struggles, though real, are overshadowed by the future glory that awaits us. Paul reassures us that creation itself is groaning in anticipation of redemption, and we, as believers, are called to wait patiently, trusting in the hope that sustains us. This hope is not in what we see, but in what we cannot yet see, a truth that strengthens our spirits amidst life’s challenges.
The Gospel parables from Luke offer vivid imagery of the Kingdom of God. The mustard seed, small yet mighty, and the leaven, quietly transformative, teach us that God’s work often begins inconspicuously but leads to profound impact. These parables encourage us to trust in the slow, steady growth of God’s grace in our lives and in the world. Just as the seed grows into a tree and the leaven permeates the dough, our faith, though it may start small, can influence and transform those around us.
Together, these readings invite us to embrace patience and trust in God’s plan. They remind us that our struggles are temporary and part of a larger narrative of redemption. As we navigate life’s challenges, we are called to nurture our faith, allowing it to grow and flourish. Just as the mustard seed and leaven bring life and nourishment, our trust in God can have a ripple effect, touching hearts and transforming lives. Let us hold fast to hope, knowing that even in the darkest moments, God is at work, guiding us toward a future filled with glory and grace.