Daily Readings for October 11, 2016

1ST READING

Paul realizes that salvation depends on grace and not merely on following the Law. As disciples of Jesus, we must learn to surrender our lives to this grace and allow the Holy Spirit to show us how to live. The Law is still a guide, but the Spirit will help us understand the Law based on our individual situations. This is what Paul means when he says that we live by the Spirit and not the flesh.

Galatians 5:1-6

1 Brothers and sisters: For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery. 2 It is I, Paul, who am telling you that if you have yourselves circumcised, Christ will be of no benefit to you. 3 Once again I declare to every man who has himself circumcised that he is bound to observe the entire law. 4 You are separated from Christ, you who are trying to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. 5 For through the Spirit, by faith, we await the hope of righteousness. 6 For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.

P S A L M

Psalm 119:41, 43, 44, 45, 47, 48

R: Let your mercy come to me, O Lord.

41 Let your mercy come to me, O Lord, your salvation according to your promise. (R) 43 Take not the word of truth from my mouth, for in your ordinances is my hope. (R) 44 And I will keep your law continually, forever and ever. (R) 45 And I will walk at liberty, because I seek your precepts. (R) 47 And I will delight in your commands, which I love. (R) 48 And I will lift up my hands to your commands and meditate on your statutes. (R)

GOSPEL

Jesus serves His disciples. Each time we celebrate the sacraments, Jesus gives Himself to us for our own sustenance, healing and growth. He has come to serve, not to be served, and this is how He lived His life. Jesus does not demand that His divinity be acknowledged — He does what His Father asks Him to do.  We should follow His lead and serve whether we are recognized or not for our service.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATION

The word of God is living and effective, able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.

Luke 11:37-41

37 After Jesus had spoken, a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home. He entered and reclined at table to eat. 38 The Pharisee was amazed to see that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal. 39 The Lord said to him, “Oh you Pharisees! Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish, inside you are filled with plunder and evil. 40 You fools! Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside? 41 But as to what is within, give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you.”