Daily Readings - Wed Jul 25 2018
2 Corinthians
7But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, so that what is sublime may be of the power of God, and not of us8In all things, we endure tribulation, yet we are not in anguish. We are constrained, yet we are not destitute9We suffer persecution, yet we have not been abandoned. We are thrown down, yet we do not perish10We ever carry around the mortification of Jesus in our bodies, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies11For we who live are ever handed over unto death for the sake of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our mortal flesh12Therefore, death is at work in us, and life is at work in you13But we have the same Spirit of faith. And just as it is written, "I believed, and for that reason I spoke," so we also believe, and for that reason, we also speak14For we know that the One who raised up Jesus will raise us up also with Jesus and will place us with you15Thus, all is for you, so that grace, abounding through many in thanksgiving, may abound to the glory of God
Matthew
20Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee approached him, with her sons, adoring him, and petitioning something from him21And he said to her, "What do you want?" She said to him, "Declare that these, my two sons, may sit, one at your right hand, and the other at your left, in your kingdom.22But Jesus, responding, said: "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink from the chalice, from which I will drink?" They said to him, "We are able.23He said to them: "From my chalice, indeed, you shall drink. But to sit at my right or my left is not mine to give to you, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father.24And the ten, upon hearing this, became indignant with the two brothers25But Jesus called them to himself and said: "You know that the first ones among the Gentiles are their rulers, and that those who are greater exercise power among them26It shall not be this way among you. But whoever will want to be greater among you, let him be your minister27And whoever will want to be first among you, he shall be your servant28even as the Son of man has not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a redemption for many.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons on humility, service, and the nature of true greatness. The second reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our human frailty is a vessel for God's power, urging us to endure trials with faith, knowing that the life of Jesus is manifested through our struggles. The Gospel from Matthew presents a stark contrast between worldly ambition and Christian humility. Jesus teaches that true leadership is not about power but about serving others, as He himself came not to be served, but to serve.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own approach to challenges and relationships. In a world often driven by competition and status, we are called to redefine greatness through selflessness and humility. Just as Paul's earthen vessels highlight God's strength, our struggles can be opportunities to rely on divine grace. Jesus's teaching challenges us to embrace a life of service, where our actions reflect a commitment to others rather than personal gain.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us seek to embody this spirit of humility and service. In our interactions, may we choose to serve rather than seek power, and in our struggles, may we find strength in God's presence. Through this, we can live as true disciples, redefining greatness in a way that honors Jesus and brings light to the world.