Daily Readings - Wed Dec 11 2019
Isaiah
25"And to whom would you compare me or equate me?" says the Holy One26Lift up your eyes on high, and see who has created these things. He leads forth their army by number, and he calls them all by name. Because of the fullness of his strength and robustness and virtue, not one of them was left behind27Why do you say this, O Jacob, and why do you speak this way, O Israel? "My way has been hidden from the Lord, and my judgment escaped notice by my God.28Do you not know, or have you not heard? The Lord is the eternal God, who has created the limits of the earth. He does not diminish, and he does not struggle. Neither is his wisdom searchable29It is he who gives strength to the weary, and it is he who increases fortitude and strength in those who are failing30Servants will struggle and fail, and young men will fall into infirmity31But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will take up wings like eagles. They will run and not struggle. They will walk and not tire
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages of hope and comfort from both Isaiah and Matthew. The first reading from Isaiah speaks to a people in exile, weary and feeling abandoned. Isaiah reminds them of God's immense power and care, urging them to trust in His strength. He highlights that God, who creates and sustains all things, does not grow weary and is always present to renew their energy. The Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus offering rest to those burdened, inviting them to take on His yoke, which is light and easy. Jesus emphasizes His meekness and humility, promising that those who come to Him will find the rest their souls desire.
Both readings, though separated by time, share a common theme of divine comfort and strength. Isaiah focuses on God's might, while Jesus offers a personal, gentle invitation. Together, they remind us that our faith is both awe-inspiring and intimately personal. In our lives, we often feel overwhelmed, much like the Israelites in exile or the people Jesus addressed. These passages encourage us to seek God's strength and find rest in Jesus, balancing trust in divine power with a personal relationship with Christ.
As we reflect on these readings, let us remember that true strength comes from humility and trust in God. In a world that often values self-reliance, we are called to acknowledge our limitations and seek divine assistance. By trusting in God and finding rest in Jesus, we can face life's challenges with renewed vigor and hope. Let us embrace this invitation to humility and trust, allowing God to carry our burdens and guide us on our journey.