📖 Readings for October 11, 2025
First Reading – Joel 4:12-21
Let the nations be roused; let them advance into the valley of Jehoshaphat; for there I will sit to judge all the nations that are gathered. Put in the sickle, for the harvest is ripe. Come, tread, for the wine press is full; the vats overflow — so great is their wickedness. Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision! For the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision.
Sun and moon grow dark, stars lose their light. The Lord roars from Zion and utters his voice from Jerusalem.
Then the Lord will be king over all the earth; on that day the Lord will be one and his name one.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 97:1-2, 5-6, 11-12
The Lord reigns, let earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad.
Clouds and thick darkness are around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
The mountains melt like wax at the presence of the Lord.
Light is sown like seed for the righteous, and gladness for the upright of heart.
Rejoice in the Lord, you who are righteous, and give thanks to his holy name.
Gospel – Luke 11:27-28
While he was saying this, a woman in the crowd called out to him, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you.”
But he said, “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”
🌟 Verse of the Day
“Blessed are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” ― Luke 11:28
Reflection
I. Introduction
Today’s readings call us to clarity about what true blessing is. A crowd praises Mary’s motherhood of Jesus, but Jesus points to a deeper blessing: those who hear and obey God’s Word. In the face of judgment, cosmic signs, and nations needing God’s justice, the call to obedience remains central.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
In Luke 11:27-28, someone in the crowd exalts Mary for bearing Jesus. Jesus respectfully acknowledges it, but redirects the focus: blessing belongs not to those of status or proximity, but to those who hear God’s Word and act on it. It’s a challenge: faith is not passive, but lived obedience.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility & Judgment
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In Joel, we see a vision of judgment and reckoning: the day of the Lord advances, nations will be gathered, and the Lord will reign. This underscores urgency and accountability.
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The Psalm portrays God’s sovereign reign, light overcoming darkness, and a call for the righteous to rejoice. The foundations of His rule are justice and righteousness.
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These set the scene: God reigns, judgment is real, and our response to His Word matters greatly.
IV. Deeper Reflections
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It is easy to admire saints, holy figures, or external signs of piety. Yet Jesus reminds us: the higher blessing is obedience—not merely admiration.
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Hearing God’s Word without acting is hollow. The measure of faith is obedience, not accolades.
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In judgment scenes like in Joel, the contrast is stark: nations judged, the Lord reigning. But in the midst of cosmic upheaval, obedience anchors us in God’s blessing.
V. Practical Applications
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When next you read Scripture or hear God’s Word, ask: What is God asking me to do?
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Pick one instruction from Scripture you’ve neglected and obey it today.
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Avoid spiritual complacency—don’t be satisfied with meditation alone; let it lead you into action.
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Reflect on how your life shows that hearing God matters more than appearances or praise.
VI. Conclusion
Blessing is not about privilege or lineage, but about listening and doing. As nations face judgment, as the Lord reigns, we are called to stand faithful—not by proximity to Christ, but by following His Word. May our lives consistently reflect obedience, proving we truly hear Him.
🙏 Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for speaking to us through Your Word. Grant me ears to hear Your voice clearly, and a heart to obey swiftly. Help me move beyond admiration into action, to live in a way that honors You. May my life show that I belong not by birth or honor, but by humble obedience. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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