📖 Readings for October 15, 2025
(Memorial of Saint Teresa of Jesus) USCCB+1
First Reading – Romans 2:1-11
“You, O man, are without excuse, everyone of you who judges another; for by the standard by which you judge you condemn yourself… But there will be glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good.” USCCB+1
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 62:2-3, 6-7, 9
R. “Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.”
Only in God is my soul at rest; from him comes my salvation. USCCB+1
Alleluia – John 10:27
Alleluia, alleluia. My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me. USCCB+1
Gospel – Luke 11:42-46
Jesus said:
“Woe to you Pharisees! You tithe mint, rue, and every garden herb, but pay no attention to justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done without neglecting the others.
Woe to you! You love the seats of honor at banquets and greetings in marketplaces. You are like unmarked graves, which people walk over without noticing.”
One of the experts in the law answered, “Teacher, by saying this you insult us too.” He replied, “Woe also to you lawyers! You load people with burdens hard to carry, but you yourselves do not lift one finger to touch them.” Catholic Gallery+1
🌟 Verse of the Day
“Lord, you give back to everyone according to his works.” — Psalm 62:12 (refrain) USCCB+1
Reflection
I. Introduction
On this memorial of St. Teresa of Avila (Teresa of Jesus), we recall her deep interior spiritual life — a life of contemplative prayer, humility, and reform. Today’s readings direct us to examine not just external acts, but the interior alignment of justice, mercy, and integrity.
II. The Gospel and Its Context
In Luke 11:42-46, Jesus condemns religious hypocrisy: meticulous external observance (tithing herbs) while ignoring justice and love. He warns against the ambition of status (honor in synagogues) and the burdening of others. The call is to live with inward justice, not only outward piety.
III. Connection with Romans & the Psalm
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Romans 2 speaks of God’s just judgment—none are exempt, and all will be judged by their deeds. Obedience and integrity matter.
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Psalm 62 reminds us that ultimate rest and trust are in God alone, and that He gives “back to each according to his works.”
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The readings together challenge us: we cannot hide behind rituals. God sees the heart, and our lives must align with His justice.
IV. Deeper Reflections
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The danger lies in being meticulous externally while neglecting justice, mercy, and humility within.
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Loving the places of honor (status) may blind us to serving the lowly and lifting burdens.
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True reform (as St. Teresa knew) begins within; sanctity isn’t just external observance, but authentic transformation of the heart.
V. Practical Applications
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Examine your religious practices: are there external acts you do that mask inner neglect?
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Commit a concrete act of justice or mercy today—help someone burdened, advocate for fairness.
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Let go of ambition or craving for honor; serve quietly and humbly.
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Cultivate interior prayer and self-examination, asking God to cleanse hidden sins and align your heart.
VI. Conclusion
God demands authenticity. He condemns nothing more strongly than empty religiosity. As St. Teresa of Avila reformed her inner life and the practices around her, we too are called to interior reform — not just to clean cups, but to cleanse hearts. May our works reflect Christ’s justice and mercy.
🙏 Prayer for the Reader & the Philippines
Heavenly Father,
Grant me a heart that is honest, just, and humble. Help me to avoid hypocrisy and to live in integrity before You and others. Teach me that true holiness is not in show but in love and mercy.
I also lift up my beloved Philippines and her people. Protect us from disasters — especially earthquakes, storms, floods. Shelter our families, strengthen our resilience, and guide our leaders.
Bring true positive change to our land. Free us from corruption, greed, and injustice. Heal our nation by Your grace, that we may reflect Your Kingdom on earth. May Your justice and mercy reign in every city, and may every Filipino live in peace and dignity.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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