Daily Readings - Thu Aug 10 2017

First Reading - 2 Corinthians 9.6-10

⁶But I say this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly. And whoever sows with blessings shall also reap from blessings⁷each one giving, just as he has determined in his heart, neither out of sadness, nor out of obligation. For God loves a cheerful giver⁸And God is able to make every grace abound in you, so that, always having what you need in all things, you may abound unto every good work⁹just as it was written: "He has distributed widely, he has given to the poor; his justice remains from age to age.¹⁰And he who ministers seed to the sower will offer you bread to eat, and will multiply your seed, and will increase the growth of the fruits of your justice

Gospel - John 12.24-26

John

Chapter 12

²⁴Amen, amen, I say to you, unless the grain of wheat falls to the ground and dies²⁵it remains alone. But if it dies, it yields much fruit. Whoever loves his life, will lose it. And whoever hates his life in this world, preserves it unto eternal life²⁶If anyone serves me, let him follow me. And where I am, there too my minister shall be. If anyone has served me, my Father will honor him

Sermon

In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of generosity, self-sacrifice, and trust in God’s providence. The first reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our generosity is not just about giving material resources but also about the spirit in which we give. St. Paul emphasizes that God loves a cheerful giver and that when we give freely and joyfully, He multiplies our efforts, providing us with everything we need to do good works. This passage encourages us to trust in God’s abundance and to cultivate a heart of gratitude and openness. The Gospel from John takes this idea a step further by linking generosity to self-sacrifice. Jesus uses the metaphor of the grain of wheat that must fall to the ground and die to bear fruit. He teaches us that true life comes not from clinging to ourselves and our comforts but from surrendering our lives for the sake of others. This is the heart of discipleship: following Christ means embracing a life of service and love, even when it requires sacrifice. Jesus promises that those who lose their lives for His sake will find true, eternal life. These readings call us to examine our lives and ask: Are we living with a spirit of generosity and self-giving love? Do we trust in God’s providence, or do we hold back, fearing scarcity? Jesus’ words remind us that our lives are not our own but are meant to be offered in service to others. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to be “cheerful givers” in every sense—whether through our time, talents, or resources. By doing so, we not only reflect God’s love but also become instruments of His grace in the world. May we trust in His promise that our sacrifices will bear fruit, both in this life and in the life to come.