📖 Readings for October 17, 2025
First Reading – Romans 4:1-8
What shall we say then that Abraham, our father according to the flesh, discovered in this matter? If Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about—but not before God. For what does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.” Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. But to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited as righteousness. David says the same thing when he speaks of the blessedness of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works: “Blessed are they whose sins are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose lawless deeds are forgiven, whose sins are covered.” Catholic Gallery
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 32:1b-2, 5, 11
R. I turn to you, Lord, in time of trouble, and you fill me with the joy of salvation.
Blessed are those whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered.
Blessed is the man to whom the Lord imputes no guilt, in whose spirit there is no deceit.
I acknowledged my sin to you, and my injustice I did not hide.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, you just, and shout for joy, all you upright of heart. Catholic Gallery
Alleluia – Psalm 33:22
May your kindness, O LORD, be upon us, who have put our hope in you. Catholic Gallery
Gospel – Luke 12:1-7
Jesus said:
“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Therefore whatever you have said in the darkness will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered behind closed doors will be proclaimed on the housetops. I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. I shall show you whom you should fear: fear him who, after he has killed, has the power to cast into Gehenna; yes, I tell you, fear him. Are not five sparrows sold for two small coins? Yet not one of them has escaped the notice of God. Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Catholic Gallery+1
🌟 Verse of the Day
“There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known.” — Luke 12:2
Reflection
I. Introduction
Today, St. Ignatius of Antioch, bishop and martyr, is commemorated—a follower who lived faith courageously even to death. The readings speak powerfully about openness, trust in God, and the folly of hypocrisy. We are reminded that God sees everything—not only what is visible, but what is hidden in our hearts.
II. The Gospel & Its Context
In Luke 12:1-7, Jesus warns against hypocrisy: what is hidden will eventually be revealed. He urges His followers not to fear what human beings can do, but to trust in the One who knows even the hairs on our head. Even when our lives are threatened, we are precious to God—worth more than many sparrows.
III. Connection with Romans & the Psalm
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Romans 4 emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith, not by works. Abraham is justified by trusting God.
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Psalm 32 speaks of forgiveness, joy, and relief when sin is confessed and covered.
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Together, these readings encourage authenticity of faith: not just outward appearances, but trust, confession, and integrity before God.
IV. Deeper Reflections
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Hypocrisy roots in fear of exposure, but Jesus assures us that God already knows all.
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The hardest truths are often hidden—anger, envy, selfishness—but God calls us to transparency and repentance.
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Trust in God frees us from fear of human judgment. Even in danger, we are secure in His care.
V. Practical Applications
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Examine your life: where are you hiding things from God or from others? Pray for courage to confess and change.
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Choose openness: share an area of struggle with someone you trust, or bring it in prayer.
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When fear comes—fear of judgment, rejection, or consequences—recall that God values you deeply, even the hairs of your head.
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Cultivate humility: know that no one is beyond God’s sight or mercy.
🙏 Prayer for the Reader & the Philippines
Heavenly Father,
You see my heart—even what I conceal. Forgive me for the times I have hidden truth out of shame or fear. Grant me courage to live transparently before You and before others. Strengthen my faith so that I may not rely on appearances or human praise, but on Your mercy and truth.
I also lift up our beloved Philippines and its people to Your care. Protect our nation from natural disasters—earthquakes, storms, floods. Shelter every family and community under Your wings. Heal our land from corruption, division, and injustice. Renew our leaders with integrity and compassion. May our nation become a place where mercy, justice, and peace flourish.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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