Daily Readings - Wed Sep 25 2024
Proverbs
5"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him.6Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.7"Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die:8Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread.9Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the LORD?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.
Luke
1When Jesus had called the Twelve together, he gave them power and authority to drive out all demons and to cure diseases,2and he sent them out to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick.3He told them: "Take nothing for the journey--no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra tunic.4Whatever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town.5If people do not welcome you, shake the dust off your feet when you leave their town, as a testimony against them."6So they set out and went from village to village, preaching the gospel and healing people everywhere.
Sermon
The first reading from Proverbs reminds us of the importance of trusting in God’s Word and living a life of simplicity and integrity. The author asks for neither wealth nor poverty but only the necessities of life, fearing that excess might lead to denial of God or that poverty might drive one to sin. This reflects a deep understanding that true fulfillment comes not from material possessions but from a steadfast commitment to God’s truth. The reading also warns against adding to or distorting God’s Word, emphasizing the importance of humility and fidelity in our relationship with Him.
In the Gospel, Luke recounts how Jesus sent the Twelve Apostles out with no provisions—no staff, no bag, no extra clothes, no money. He instructed them to depend entirely on God’s providence and the hospitality of others. This mission was not just about preaching and healing but about trusting in God’s plan and living simply. The Apostles were to stay in one place until their work was done and, if rejected, to move on without resentment, shaking the dust from their feet as a witness. This teaches us about detachment, trust, and perseverance in our own mission to live as disciples.
Both readings call us to a life of faith and simplicity. Proverbs encourages us to avoid the temptations of wealth and poverty by seeking only what is necessary, while Luke’s Gospel challenges us to trust in God’s providence and live without attachment to material comforts. In our daily lives, this means letting go of the need for control and security, and instead, placing our trust in God’s plan. It invites us to live with gratitude for what we have, to share generously with others, and to remain faithful even when faced with rejection or uncertainty. May we, like the Apostles, embrace simplicity and trust in God’s Word, allowing it to guide us in all we do.