“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” — Psalm 34:18

 

📖 Readings for November 11, 2025

First Reading – Wisdom 2:23–3:9

“For God created man to be immortal, and made him in the image of his own eternity… But the souls of the righteous are in the hand of God and no torment of death will touch them. … Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are with his holy ones.” Catholic Collectionary+3Dynamic Catholic+3Catholic Leaf+3

Responsorial Psalm – Psalms 34:2-3, 16-17, 18-19

R. I will bless the LORD at all times; his praise shall be ever in my mouth.
“The LORD has eyes for the just, and ears for their cry… The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” Catholic Collectionary+1

Gospel – Luke 17:7-10

Jesus said to his disciples: “Which of you, having a servant plowing or tending sheep, would say to him, when he came in from the field, ‘Come in immediately and sit down to eat’? … So you also, when you have done all the things that were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’” Catholic Daily Readings+2Dynamic Catholic+2

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🌟 Verse of the Day

“The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; and those who are crushed in spirit he saves.” — Psalm 34:18

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Reflection

I. Introduction

Today’s readings bring comfort and humility together—they remind us of God’s closeness to us in our weakness, and call us to live with humble service. On the memorial of Saint Martin of Tours, a bishop known for his humility and care for the poor, we’re invited to reflect on what it means to serve without expectation, and to trust in the God who saves the brokenhearted.

II. The Gospel Passage & Its Context

In Luke 17:7-10, Jesus uses a parable to teach humility: even when we serve faithfully, our service is simply what we ought to do. We are “unworthy servants” who have done our duty. This challenges any notion that faith is about earning praise or privilege. Instead, our service flows from belonging—to God and to one another.

III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Life

• The Wisdom reading reminds us that human life was created for immortality and that the just rest in God’s hand—no torment touches them. → A promise of peace for the faithful.

• The Psalm assures us the Lord sees our suffering and draws near to the brokenhearted. → A promise of presence and rescue.

• The Gospel calls us to humility in service. → A call to live faith in everyday acts, not for recognition.
  Together: we are cared for by God, called to care for others, and invited to walk in humility.

IV. Reflections

• When we feel broken, crushed, or overlooked, today’s verse comforts: God is near.

• Serving others isn’t about standing out—it’s about standing with, standing for.

• Humility isn’t self-deprecation—it’s truth about where our worth lies: in being beloved children of God, not in what we accomplish.

• Trusting in God’s promise of immortality gives meaning to our present service and suffering.

V. Practical Applications

1. Reach out to someone who is brokenhearted or discouraged today. A message, a visit, a moment of listening.

2. Serve quietly—offer help without expecting thanks. Let your service be your worship.

3. Affirm your identity: “I belong to God.” Let that guide your words and choices.

4. Pray for humility: Ask God to make you a “worthy servant” who does what is required—not for reward, but out of love.

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VI. Conclusion

God draws near to us in our brokenness and calls us to serve in humility. We rest in His promise of salvation and become instruments of that salvation for others. In our quiet service, our constant trust, our compassionate hearts, we reflect the light of Christ in the world.

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🙏 Morning Prayer for the Reader

Loving Father,
Thank You for the gift of this day and for drawing near to the brokenhearted.
Help me to serve You and others with humility, not seeking praise but seeking only to do what You ask.
For those who feel crushed in spirit, lonely, or weary—be their refuge and strength.
Bless our Philippines, protect our people from harm, especially from storms and disasters. Guide our young people toward prayer and humility.
May our service today be an offering that brings glory to You and healing to others.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.