Daily Readings - Sat Oct 19 2024

Ephesians

15For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all the saints,16I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.17I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.18I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints,19and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is like the working of his mighty strength,20which he exerted in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms,21far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every title that can be given, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.22And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church,23which is his body, the fullness of him who fills everything in every way.

Luke

8"I tell you, whoever acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him before the angels of God.9But he who disowns me before men will be disowned before the angels of God.10And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.11"When you are brought before synagogues, rulers and authorities, do not worry about how you will defend yourselves or what you will say,12for the Holy Spirit will teach you at that time what you should say."

Sermon

In today's readings, we delve into the essence of faith, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the call to bold discipleship. The first reading from Ephesians is a heartfelt prayer where Paul expresses gratitude for the faith and love of the Ephesian community. He prays for their spiritual enlightenment, that they may grasp the hope and riches of their inheritance in Christ. This passage emphasizes the exalted position of Christ, who is above all creation and the head of the Church, which is His body. It invites us to reflect on our understanding of Christ's role in our lives and the Church's unity in Him. The Gospel from Luke shifts our focus to the personal commitment required in following Christ. Jesus underscores the importance of openly confessing Him, promising that such faithfulness will be acknowledged before the angels. Conversely, denial of Him will lead to being denied. Jesus also addresses the gravity of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, a sin that goes unforgiven. He then offers reassurance, urging the disciples not to fear persecution, for the Holy Spirit will guide their words in times of trial. These readings intertwine through the theme of the Holy Spirit's role in empowering believers. In Ephesians, the Spirit provides wisdom and revelation, while in Luke, the Spirit offers courage and guidance in adversity. Together, they remind us that our faith journey is not solitary but supported by divine grace. As we navigate life's challenges, we are called to trust in the Spirit's power, embracing our role as faithful witnesses of Christ. May we seek the Spirit's wisdom and courage, living as bold and hopeful disciples, united in the body of Christ.