📖 Readings for November 6, 2025 (Thursday of the 31st Week in Ordinary Time)
First Reading – Romans 14:7-12
“None of us lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself. For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s. … So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.” USCCB+1
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 27:1 bcde, 4, 13-14
R. “I believe that I shall see the good things of the LORD in the land of the living.”
“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? … One thing I ask of the LORD; this I seek: to dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life … I believe that I shall see the bounty of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait for the LORD; be strong; let your heart take courage; yes, wait for the LORD.” USCCB+1
Gospel – Luke 15:1-10
“The tax collectors and sinners were all drawing near to listen to Jesus; but the Pharisees and scribes began to complain, saying, ‘This man welcomes sinners and eats with them.’ So he told them this parable: ‘What man among you having a hundred sheep, if he loses one of them, does not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? And when he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and rejoices. … In the same way, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance.’” USCCB+1
🌟 Verse of the Day
“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” — Psalm 27:1 (R.)
Reflection
I. Introduction
As we enter this day, we are reminded that our lives are not our own—they belong to the Lord. At the same time, we see a God who pursues the lost and celebrates their return. Today’s readings invite us to live in that reality: belonging to God, pursued by God, and called to reflect His mercy.
II. The Gospel Passage & Its Context
In Luke 15:1-10, Jesus addresses the heart of God’s mercy through the parable of the lost sheep and the lost coin. The one who is lost is sought out; when found, there is rejoicing. God's love is personal and persistent. And we are invited: whether we feel lost, found, or still searching—we matter to God.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Life
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Romans 14:7-12 reminds that since we belong to the Lord, our decisions—how we live, how we treat others—matter.
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Psalm 27 encourages trust: the Lord is our light and salvation; we need not fear.
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Together: we are God’s, we are pursued by Him, and we are called to live accordingly—with courage, generosity, mercy.
IV. Reflections
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Our lives are not self-contained; they are oriented toward the Lord. We live and die for Him.
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God’s joy over one repentant sinner reminds us that no one is beyond His reach. If you feel lost, remember: you are sought.
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Fear and self-condemnation begin when we forget we belong to God. The Psalm invites us to trust boldly.
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The accountability mentioned in Romans isn't meant to scare—it invites humbly living for the Lord, and loving others.
V. Practical Applications
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Reflect: In what ways do I live as if I belong solely to myself? How can I live more fully as belonging to the Lord?
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Choose one act of mercy or compassion today—for someone who feels lost or ignored.
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Pray Psalm 27’s words when fear or doubt creeps in: “The Lord is my light and salvation…”
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Remember: chasing someone who feels lost may bring great joy—be alert to opportunities to seek out, welcome, and restore.
VI. Conclusion
Today is both a reminder and an invitation: we belong to God, and He belongs to us. At the same time, we are to live in that truth by reflecting His mercy to others. Let our lives be marked by courage, trust, compassion—and celebration for the lost found.
🙏 Morning Prayer
Heavenly Father,
You are my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? Thank You for believing in me, for pursuing me when I might have strayed, and for inviting me into Your fold. Grant me courage to live today fully as Yours—trusting in Your protection, living in Your love, and seeking to bring others home to You.
For all who are weary, brokenhearted, mourning or feeling weak—may Your comforting presence surround them, strengthen them, and renew their hope. Have mercy on us, sinners in need of Your grace and forgiveness.
We pray for our beloved Philippines: protect our people from calamities, earthquakes, storms and disruption. Heal our land, restore unity among our communities, raise leaders of integrity, and let Your mercy and justice prevail.
As we begin this new day, may we remember we live for You—and may our lives reflect Your light, mercy, and love. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.
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