Daily Readings - Sat Sep 13 2025
1 Timothy
15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners--of whom I am the worst.16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life.17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Luke
43"No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit.44Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers.45The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks.46"Why do you call me, 'Lord, Lord,' and do not do what I say?47I will show you what he is like who comes to me and hears my words and puts them into practice.48He is like a man building a house, who dug down deep and laid the foundation on rock. When a flood came, the torrent struck that house but could not shake it, because it was well built.49But the one who hears my words and does not put them into practice is like a man who built a house on the ground without a foundation. The moment the torrent struck that house, it collapsed and its destruction was complete."
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the profound mercy of God and the importance of living out our faith. The first reading from 1 Timothy emphasizes that Christ came to save sinners, with Paul humbly acknowledging himself as the foremost sinner. Yet, through God's mercy, Paul became an example of patience for others, illustrating that no one is beyond redemption. The Gospel from Luke uses the parable of the trees and the two builders to highlight that our actions reflect our inner state. A good tree bears good fruit, and a house built on rock endures, symbolizing the importance of acting on God's teachings.
Both readings underscore the transformative power of God's mercy and the necessity of living according to His will. Paul's experience shows that mercy is not just forgiveness but also a call to share that grace with others. Similarly, Luke's parable teaches us that merely hearing God's word is insufficient; we must act on it, building our spiritual lives on the solid foundation of faith.
In our daily lives, this means acknowledging our sinfulness and embracing God's mercy. We must allow this grace to transform us, leading us to act with love and integrity. Just as a tree is known by its fruit, our actions reveal our true character. Let us strive to build our lives on the rock of faith, ensuring that our deeds reflect the mercy and love we have received. By doing so, we become living testimonies of God's grace, enduring life's challenges with resilience and hope.