Daily Readings - Wed Aug 01 2018
Jeremiah
10"O my mother, woe to me! Why did you conceive me, a man of strife, a man of discord to all the earth? I have not lent money at interest, nor has anyone lent money at interest to me. Yet everyone is cursing me.16I discovered your words and I consumed them. And your word became to me as the gladness and joy of my heart. For your name has been invoked over me, O Lord, the God of hosts17I did not sit in the company of mockers, nor did I glorify myself before the presence of your hand. I sat alone, because you filled me with threats18Why has my sorrow become never-ending, and why has my wound become so dire that it refuses to be cured? It has become for me like the deception of untrustworthy waters.19Because of this, thus says the Lord: "If you will be converted, I will convert you. And you will stand before my face. And you will separate what is precious from what is vile. You will be my mouthpiece. They will be converted to you, but you will not be converted to them20And I will present you to this people as a strong wall of brass. And they will fight against you, and they will not prevail. For I am with you, so as to save you and to rescue you, says the Lord21And I will free you from hand of those who are most wicked, and I will redeem you from the hand of the powerful.
Matthew
44The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man finds it, he hides it, and, because of his joy, he goes and sells everything that he has, and he buys that field45Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant seeking good pearls46Having found one pearl of great value, he went away and sold all that he had, and he bought it
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound reflections on commitment and the pursuit of spiritual treasure. The prophet Jeremiah expresses his deep sorrow and isolation, feeling the weight of his mission from God. Despite his struggles and the persecution he faces, God assures him of protection and redemption, urging him to remain faithful. This passage highlights Jeremiah's unwavering commitment to his divine calling, even amidst adversity.
In the Gospel, Jesus uses two parables to illustrate the Kingdom of Heaven. The first compares it to a hidden treasure, which a man finds and, with great joy, sacrifices everything to possess. The second likens it to a merchant seeking a pearl of great value, who sells all he has to acquire it. These parables emphasize the immense value of spiritual life, urging us to prioritize the Kingdom above all else.
Reflecting on these readings, we are invited to evaluate our own commitments and priorities. Like Jeremiah, we may face challenges in our faith journey, but trust in God's presence and guidance is essential. The parables remind us that seeking spiritual treasure requires sacrifice and dedication. Let us ask ourselves: Are we willing to let go of worldly attachments to deepen our relationship with God? May we find the courage to commit fully to our faith, trusting that the spiritual riches we gain will far outweigh any earthly possessions.