A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Leviticus 25:35-55

If anyone falls upon hard times and becomes dependent on us, we shall support them and even have them live with us. Never make a profit from someone elses hardship. Rather, fear God, and take are of God’s children because God delivered us when we were still in our sins. Even if someone sells themselves to you, you shall never make them your slaves. Instead, help them find honorable work and earn an honorable wage. They and their children with them should live free of injustice and oppression. Help them preserve and protect their unique identity. Never rule over anyone with harshness.

Colossians 1:9-14

Do not cease praying for one another. We must pray that God fills us with wisdom and spiritual understanding so that we might lead lives worthy of the Lord and bear fruit for the Kingdom of God. Our strength comes from God’s glorious power. We are prepared to endure everything with patience. We joyfully give thanks to God who has enabled us to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light. God has rescued us from the power of darkness and given us a safe place in the Kingdom of God.

Matthew 13:1-16

Listen to the Jesus’ parable of the sower. “A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty.” Those who have no faith are like the seeds that fell on the path. They are eaten up by their experiences in this world. Those who have little faith but many doubts are like the seeds that fell on rocky ground. They have no depth of wisdom and are easily swayed by the various opinions of others - they have no reall roots and are peer pressured into living life a certain way. Those who have faith and refuse to forgive others or hold onto hate and anger are like those seeds that fell among thorns. The hurt of the past chokes the very life out of them and their faith fails to flourish. Those who have faith and are able to forgive are like the seed that fell on good soil. They are aware of the difficulties of life but focus on the deliverance promised through Christ. They flourish in their faith and are bear much fruit. Where are the seeds of your life scattered?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Deuteronomy 1:1-18 This passage contains the words that Moses spoke to all Israel as they were camped on the great plains of Moab, able to see across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This was the land of Canaan that God promised them but which they had not occupied for 400 years. This passage reminds us to be faithful and exhorts us to be prepared even then life is frustrating and confusing. God has a plan and purpose for our life even if we do not understand God’s ways. This passage also reveals Moses’ leadership style to us. He was willing to distribute the responsibility of leadership to others but did so only with the support of the people. It was not a dictatorship; it was a democracy. Each tribe was given freedom to choose individuals who were wise, discerning, and reputable among them to be their leaders. In what ways have we entrusted the responsibility of leadership to others? How have we failed to identify small group leaders ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Ezekiel 4:1-17 This passage portrays a vivid and symbolic depiction of the prophet's obedience to God's commands. As we reflect on these verses, we are struck by the profound message of commitment and sacrifice. Through the actions of building a miniature model of Jerusalem's siege and lying on his side for an extended period, Ezekiel demonstrates his unwavering faith and willingness to bear the burdens of his people. This passage reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's calling, even when it requires discomfort or unconventional actions. It encourages us to ponder how we can wholeheartedly serve and fulfill God's purposes, regardless of the challenges that may arise. Which of God’s commands is hardest for you to follow and why? Describe a recent experience where you modeled commitment and sacrifice to a cause bigger than yourself. Does your faith ever waver? Why or why not? Have you ever found obedience to God to ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings 2 Samuel 17:24-18:8 In this passage, the narrative unfolds with King David in a time of crisis. His trusted counselor Ahithophel betrayed him, siding with Absalom. Amidst the chaos, David's faith in God remained unwavering. His plea for divine guidance led to wise counsel from Hushai, which countered Ahithophel's advice. David's reliance on God's direction prevailed, highlighting the importance of seeking God's will even in dire circumstances. This passage underscores that no scheme against God's chosen can prosper when trust in His providence prevails. It's a reminder to steadfastly seek God's guidance in all decisions. Questions: How did David react to Ahithophel's betrayal? How do you typically respond to betrayal? Why did Hushai's counsel to Absalom prove pivotal? Name one person who you turn to for wise counsel? How does this passage reveal David's unwavering faith during crisis? Has you faith ev...
Read more