Daily Readings - Sat Jul 18 2020
Micah
1Woe to you who devise useless things and who work evil in your beds. In the morning light, they undertake it, because their hand is against God2And they have desired fields and have taken them by violence, and they have stolen houses. And they have made false accusations against a man and his house, a man and his inheritance3For this reason, thus says the Lord: Behold, I devise an evil against this family, from which you will not steal away your necks. And you will not walk in arrogance, because this is a most wicked time4In that day, a parable will be taken up about you, and a song will be sung with sweetness, saying: "We have been devastated by depopulation." The fate of my people has been altered. How can he withdraw from me, when he might be turned back, he who might tear apart our country5Because of this, there will be for you no casting of the cord of fate in the assembly of the Lord
Matthew
14Then the Pharisees, departing, took council against him, as to how they might destroy him15But Jesus, knowing this, withdrew from there. And many followed him, and he cured them all16And he instructed them, lest they make him known17Then what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah was fulfilled, saying18"Behold, my servant whom I have chosen, my beloved in whom my soul is well pleased. I will place my Spirit over him, and he shall announce judgment to the nations19He shall not contend, nor cry out, neither shall anyone hear his voice in the streets20He shall not crush the bruised reed, and he shall not extinguish the smoking wick, until he sends forth judgment unto victory21And the Gentiles shall hope in his name.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected themes: the condemnation of injustice and the fulfillment of prophecy through humble service. The first reading from Micah addresses a society steeped in greed and oppression, where the powerful seize land and homes, leaving devastation in their wake. Micah's prophecy warns of impending judgment, a time when arrogance will fall, and the people will recognize the error of their ways. This reading serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting justice and compassion.
In contrast, the Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus as the embodiment of humility and gentle strength. Despite the Pharisees' plots against him, Jesus continues his ministry of healing and teaching, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of a servant who brings hope without fanfare. Jesus's actions exemplify a different kind of power—one rooted in love and service rather than coercion or dominance. This passage invites us to reflect on how we exercise power and influence in our own lives.
Together, these readings challenge us to examine our values and actions. Micah's warning against exploitation and Jesus's example of selfless service call us to live with integrity, to stand up for justice, and to trust in God's plan. In a world often driven by greed and ambition, we are reminded that true greatness lies in humility and compassion. As we navigate our daily lives, may we strive to follow Jesus's example, bringing light and hope to those around us.