Daily Readings - Thu Jun 29 2017

Second Reading - 2 Timothy 4.6-8, 17-18

⁶For I am already being worn away, and the time of my dissolution presses close⁷I have fought the good fight. I have completed the course. I have preserved the faith⁸As for the remainder, a crown of justice has been reserved for me, one which the Lord, the just judge, will render to me in that day, and not only to me, but also to those who look forward to his return. Hurry to return to me soon¹⁷But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me, so that through me the preaching would be accomplished, and so that all the Gentiles would hear. And I was freed from the mouth of the lion¹⁸The Lord has freed me from every evil work, and he will accomplish salvation by his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory forever and ever. Amen

Gospel - Matthew 16.13-19

Matthew

Chapter 16

¹³Then Jesus went into parts of Caesarea Philippi. And he questioned his disciples, saying, "Who do men say that the Son of man is?¹⁴And they said, "Some say John the Baptist, and others say Elijah, still others say Jeremiah or one of the prophets.¹⁵Jesus said to them, "But who do you say that I am?¹⁶Simon Peter responded by saying, "You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.¹⁷And in response, Jesus said to him: "Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah. For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father, who is in heaven¹⁸And I say to you, that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hell shall not prevail against it¹⁹And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatever you shall bind on earth shall be bound, even in heaven. And whatever you shall release on earth shall be released, even in heaven.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter profound reflections on faith, trust, and the divine plan. The Second Reading from 2 Timothy reveals Paul's unwavering faith as he nears the end of his life, expressing confidence in God's deliverance and the eternal glory that awaits. The Gospel from Matthew captures a pivotal moment where Peter confesses Jesus as the Christ, leading to the establishment of the Church on the rock of Peter's faith. These passages, while distinct, are united by their emphasis on trust and divine foundation. Paul's trust in God's providence, despite trials, mirrors the trust required of Peter as the foundation of the Church. Both readings highlight the importance of faith in God's plan and the enduring nature of His Church. In our daily lives, these readings remind us to remain faithful, even in adversity, trusting in God's plan. The moral lesson is clear: unwavering faith and trust in God's providence are essential. Just as Peter's confession and Paul's perseverance were pivotal, our faith today strengthens the Church and guides us through life's challenges. Let us embrace this faith, trusting in God's plan and contributing to the Church's enduring mission.