First Reading: Titus 2:1-8, 11-14
But speak the things that belong to sound doctrine: That the older men be sober, chaste, prudent, sound in faith, in love, in patience.
The older women likewise in holy attire, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teaching well, that they may teach the young women to be wise, to love their husbands, to love their children, to be discreet, chaste, sober, caring for the home, gentle, obedient to their husbands, that the word of God may not be blasphemed.
Young men likewise exhort to be sober. In all things show yourself an example of good works, in doctrine, in integrity, in seriousness, sound speech that cannot be blamed, so that he who opposes us may be ashamed, having no evil to say of us.
For the grace of God our Savior has appeared to all men, teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live soberly and justly and godly in this world, looking for the blessed hope and coming of the glory of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity and cleanse for Himself a people acceptable, zealous for good works.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 37:3-4, 18 and 23, 27 and 29
R. The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.
Alleluia: John 14:23
Gospel: Luke 17:7-10
But which of you having a servant plowing or feeding cattle will say to him when he comes from the field: Come immediately, sit down to eat?
And will he not rather say to him: Make ready my supper and gird yourself and serve me while I eat and drink, and afterwards you shall eat and drink? Does he thank that servant for doing the things which he commanded him? I think not.
So you also, when you have done all these things that are commanded you, say: We are unprofitable servants, we have done what we ought to do.
Reflection
Paul is very practical. He tells Titus - teach the older men to be sober, faithful, patient. Teach the older women to be holy and to teach the younger ones well. Teach the young men to be sober. In all things, show yourself as an example of good works.
Why can we live like this? Because grace has appeared. Jesus gave Himself to redeem us and to cleanse for Himself a people who are eager to do good. So we can turn away from evil and do good, trusting that the Lord directs our steps and that salvation comes from Him.
Jesus adds something that keeps us humble. When you have done everything you were told to do, do not ask for applause. Just say: We are unprofitable servants, we have done what we ought to do. Quiet faithfulness, without needing praise, is a true witness of grace.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, your grace has appeared to save us. Teach me to live soberly, justly and godly, and to be an example of good works in my daily duties. Give me a humble heart that does not seek praise for doing what is right. Direct my steps away from evil and toward good. Let my life show that I love you and keep your word. Amen.
Readings are taken from the Douay-Rheims Bible, rendered in modern English for easy reading.
