Daily Catholic Mass Readings for November 15, 2023
First Reading: Wisdom 6.1-11
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Psalm 82
1God presides in the great assembly; he gives judgment among the "gods":2"How long will you defend the unjust and show partiality to the wicked? Selah3Defend the cause of the weak and fatherless; maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed.4Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.5"They know nothing, they understand nothing. They walk about in darkness; all the foundations of the earth are shaken.6"I said, 'You are "gods"; you are all sons of the Most High.'7But you will die like mere men; you will fall like every other ruler."8Rise up, O God, judge the earth, for all the nations are your inheritance.
Gospel: Luke 17.11-19
11Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee.12As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance13and called out in a loud voice, "Jesus, Master, have pity on us!"14When he saw them, he said, "Go, show yourselves to the priests." And as they went, they were cleansed.15One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.16He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him--and he was a Samaritan.17Jesus asked, "Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?18Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?"19Then he said to him, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well."
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the profound responsibilities that come with the gifts we receive from God. The Book of Wisdom cautions those in power, emphasizing that true wisdom surpasses any earthly authority. It warns that power is a divine trust, and those who wield it will face a stricter judgment. This passage serves as a timeless reminder to leaders and all believers to act justly and humbly, recognizing that their strength comes from God.
The Gospel of Luke complements this message with the story of the ten lepers. Jesus heals all of them, but only the Samaritan returns to express gratitude. This foreigner, often considered an outsider, exemplifies true faith and humility. His thankful heart leads to a deeper healing, highlighting the importance of recognizing and thanking God for His blessings in our lives.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own responses to God's gifts. Whether we hold positions of power or experience personal blessings, we are called to gratitude and humility. Let us strive to acknowledge God's presence in our lives, not just in our successes but also in our struggles. By doing so, we may find true healing and a deeper relationship with Him.