A REFLECTION ON THE DAILY OFFICE READINGS

Ecclesiaticus 2:1-11

The act of service is never easy. Those who have a servant’s heart are often tested by the world. Therefore, considerable preparation is required in readying oneself for service. The heart must be set right, and one must not be impetuous in time of trial and tribulation. We must cling to the essentials of our faith and never depart from our foundational beliefs. Only then will we be able to serve to the best of our ability and bear fruit for the glory of God. We should be willing to embrace whatever befalls us, and need to remain patient even when we are humiliated. For just as gold is tested in the fire, true servants are often made perfect through the furnace of humiliation. In times of despair, we are called to trust in God, fully believing that God will help us and make our ways straight. Thefore, let us wait upon God’s mercy so that we do not stray from the path of righteousness and fall into the hands of the evil one. Those who put their faith in the Lord will not lose their reward. On the contrary, they were receive good things and attain lasting joy. Just consider the generations of old and see: has anyone trusted in the Lord and been disappointed? Or has anyone persevered in the fear of the Lord and been forsaken? Or has anyone called upon him and been neglected? NO!!!! Behold, the Lord will uphold those who genuinely serve in his name.

Acts 12:25-13:3

In this passage Barnabas and Saul are set apart for the Lord’s work. This setting apart was not done haphazardly but with great care. We are told that those who laid hands on them and sent them off did so only after fasting and praying. When we appoint leaders among us, in what specific ways do we prepare ourselves for making such appointments? How do we train our leaders to enter into such roles?

Isaiah 62:6-12

We are called to love our city. This means protecting it from unjust structures and defending it against oppressive frameworks. God’s love for Jerusalem was unmistakable, and it created an environment that embraced diversity, promoted equality, and was committed to a spirit of inclusion. God’s love for Jerusalem inspires us to work for the upliftment of those who suffer in our communities and neighborhoods. Our love for those in our city must be experienced in concrete and tangible ways. Outreach efforts must not be transactional but instead relational. It is when relate with one another and build one another up that we can truly celebrate God’s grace and become a city that brings light to the world.

2 Timothy 4:1-11

Persistence in sharing the truth is key. In both good times and bad times, truth is truth no matter how we or others may feel about it. Therefore let us be bold and courageous as we convince, rebuke, and encourage one another in the truth. Unfortunately, the world is not open to the truth. Those who lust for the world have itching ears. They accumulate information and data that support their lies and permit them to wander away into mythical absurdities that oppress God’s children. As for us, we need to remain sober, endure suffering, and do the hard work of proclaiming the truth in all times and in all places. We must fight the good fight, finish our race, and keep the faith. Then only will be be able to wear the crown of righteousness, and help establish peace in this world.

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



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