Daily Readings - Fri Sep 22 2017

First Reading - 1 Timothy 6.2c-12

²But those who have believing masters, let them not despise them because they are brothers, but rather serve them all the more because they are believing and beloved, participants of the same service. Teach and exhort these things³If anyone teaches otherwise, and does not consent to the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to that doctrine which is in accord with piety⁴then he is arrogant, knowing nothing, yet languishing amid the questions and quarrels of words. From these arise envy, contention, blasphemy, evil suspicions⁵the conflicts of men who have been corrupted in mind and deprived of truth, who consider profit to be piety⁶But piety with sufficiency is great gain⁷For we brought nothing into this world, and there is no doubt that we can take nothing away⁸But, having nourishment and some kind of covering, we should be content with these⁹For those who want to become rich fall into temptation and into the snare of the devil and into many useless and harmful desires, which submerge men in destruction and in perdition¹⁰For desire is the root of all evils. Some persons, hungering in this way, have strayed from the faith and have entangled themselves in many sorrows¹¹But you, O man of God, flee from these things, and truly pursue justice, piety, faith, charity, patience, meekness¹²Fight the good fight of faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you have been called, and make a good profession of faith in the sight of many witnesses

Gospel - Luke 8.1-3

Luke

Chapter 8

¹And it happened afterwards that he was making a journey through the cities and towns, preaching and evangelizing the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him²along with certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, who is called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had departed³and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many other women, who were ministering to him from their resources

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected messages that guide us in our Christian journey. The first reading from 1 Timothy 6:2c-12 emphasizes the importance of serving others with humility and integrity, particularly within the context of faith. It warns against the pitfalls of greed and false teachings, urging us instead to embrace contentment and pursue virtues such as justice, piety, and charity. The passage reminds us that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in living a life grounded in faith and moral integrity. The Gospel from Luke 8:1-3 presents a vivid scene of Jesus's ministry, highlighting the diverse community that supported his mission. The presence of women like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who provided for Jesus's needs, underscores the value of selfless service and the inclusive nature of the Kingdom of God. This passage invites us to reflect on how we, like these women, can contribute to the greater good through our unique gifts and resources. Together, these readings remind us of the transformative power of service and contentment. In a world often driven by greed and individualism, they call us to reevaluate our priorities and align them with the teachings of Christ. By embracing humility, avoiding the snares of wealth, and supporting one another in faith, we can live out the Gospel in our daily lives, fostering a community rooted in love and mutual support. Let us strive to embody the virtues extolled in today's readings, trusting that true fulfillment comes not from material wealth but from a life dedicated to serving God and others.