Bible Readings - Oct. 18, 2024

Reading I

Ephesians 1:11-14

In him we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose

of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his will,

so that we might exist for the praise of his glory, we who first hoped in Christ.

In him you also, who have heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation,

and have believed in him, were sealed with the promised holy Spirit,

which is the first installment of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s possession,

to the praise of his glory.

Psalm 145:10-13, 17-18

Let all your works give you thanks, O LORD,

and let your faithful ones bless you.

Let them discourse of the glory of your Kingdom

and speak of your might.

Making known to men your might

and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom.

Your Kingdom is a Kingdom for all ages,

and your dominion endures through all generations.

The LORD is just in all his ways

and holy in all his works.

The LORD is near to all who call upon him,

to all who call upon him in truth.

John 14:6

I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord;

no one comes to the Father except through me.

Gospel

Luke 12:1-7

Meanwhile, so many people were crowding together

that they were trampling one another underfoot. 

He began to speak, first to his disciples, “Beware of the leaven

—that is, the hypocrisy—of the Pharisees.

“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

but after that can do no more.

I shall show you whom to fear. Be afraid of the one who

after killing has the power to cast into Gehenna;

yes, I tell you, be afraid of that one.

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.