The Daily Office for October 8, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
There are three brief exchanges in today's Gospel reading and we'll quickly look at each. In verses 39 through 42 we find that it is only human nature to see the faults of others while overlooking our own. But human nature is sinful. Jesus states that if we first take care of our own faults, we may then be able to help those around us.
Verses 43 through 45 share the unchangeable law that outward fruit resembles and reproduces the inward qualities of the tree. So with humanity, the mouth simply echoes the thoughts of the heart. One’s speech is a good barometer of his or her spiritual condition. Each person must examine their own speech to see if it exhibits anger, bitterness, irritation, and gossip, or if it reflects cheerfulness, sympathy, and love.
Finally, the meaning of the short parabolic saying about the houses built on the rock and on the sand concerns the foundation of one’s life. Only those who actually do Christ’s will have a sure foundation beneath them. All other ways, routes, and efforts will end in destruction.
Collect for the Day
Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us your gift of faith that, forsaking what lies behind and reaching out to that which is before, we may run the way of your commandments and win the crown of everlasting joy; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.