Daily Readings - Fri Sep 13 2024
1 Corinthians
16Yet when I preach the gospel, I cannot boast, for I am compelled to preach. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!17If I preach voluntarily, I have a reward; if not voluntarily, I am simply discharging the trust committed to me.18What then is my reward? Just this: that in preaching the gospel I may offer it free of charge, and so not make use of my rights in preaching it.19Though I am free and belong to no man, I make myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible.22To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some.23I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.24Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.25Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.26Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly; I do not fight like a man beating the air.27No, I beat my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Luke
39He also told them this parable: "Can a blind man lead a blind man? Will they not both fall into a pit?40A student is not above his teacher, but everyone who is fully trained will be like his teacher.41"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?42How can you say to your brother, 'Brother, let me take the speck out of your eye,' when you yourself fail to see the plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
Sermon
In today's readings, we hear from St. Paul and Jesus, both emphasizing the importance of humility and genuine service. In the First Reading, St. Paul shares his commitment to spreading the Gospel, not for personal glory but out of obligation. He adopts various roles to connect with different audiences, likening his dedication to an athlete's rigorous training, striving for an eternal prize. This highlights his selflessness and discipline in serving others.
In the Gospel, Jesus uses vivid parables to caution against hypocrisy and judgmental attitudes. He questions how the blind can lead the blind and criticizes those who focus on others' faults while ignoring their own. Jesus emphasizes that true leadership comes from self-awareness and humility, urging us to address our own shortcomings before helping others.
These readings remind us to reflect on our own actions and attitudes. We are called to serve others without seeking recognition and to examine our own faults before judging others. By embracing humility and self-awareness, we can lead with integrity and compassion, embodying the teachings of Jesus and the example set by St. Paul. Let us strive to live with such humility, fostering a community built on mutual support and genuine care.