First Reading

Reading from the letter of the Apostle Saint Paul to the Ephesians

Ephesians 1, 11-14

Brothers and sisters: In Christ we too have been chosen as heirs. For this we were destined, by the decision of the one who accomplishes everything according to his will: so that we might be a continual praise of his glory, we who had already hoped in Christ beforehand.

In him, you also, after hearing the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation, and after believing, have been marked with the promised Holy Spirit. This Spirit is the guarantee of our inheritance, until the redemption of the people acquired by God, for the praise of his glory.

Gospel

Reading from the holy Gospel according to Saint Luke

Luke 12, 1-7

At that time, the crowd surrounded Jesus in such great numbers that they were trampling one another. Then Jesus said to his disciples:

“Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees, that is, hypocrisy. For there is nothing hidden that will not be discovered, nor anything secret that will not be known. Therefore, everything you have said in the dark will be said in the light, and what you have said in a low voice and in private will be proclaimed from the rooftops.

I tell you, my friends: Do not fear those who kill the body and after that can do nothing more. I will tell you whom you should fear: Fear the one who, after putting you to death, can throw you into the place of punishment. I repeat: Him you must fear.

Are not five sparrows sold for two coins? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God; and as for you, even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid, then, because you are worth much more than all the sparrows.”