Daily Readings - Thu Feb 25 2021
Esther
1Queen Esther also, fearing the danger that was imminent, fled to the Lord3And she begged the Lord God of Israel, saying, "My Lord, who alone is our King, help me, a solitary woman, for there is no other helper but you4My peril is close at hand5I have heard from my father that you, Lord, chose Israel from among all nations and our fathers from among all their former ancestors, to possess them as an everlasting inheritance, and you have done for them just as you said12Be mindful, Lord, and show yourself to us in the time of our tribulation, and give me faith, Lord, King of gods and of every power13Grant fitting words to my mouth in the sight of the lion, and transform his heart to hate our enemy, so that both he, and the others who conspire with him, may perish14But free us by your hand, and help me, who has no other helper but you, Lord, who holds the knowledge of all things
Matthew
7Ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek, and you shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened to you8For everyone who asks, receives; and whoever seeks, finds; and to anyone who knocks, it will be opened9Or what man is there among you, who, if his son were to ask him for bread, would offer him a stone10or if he were to ask him for a fish, would offer him a snake11Therefore, if you, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your sons, how much more will your Father, who is in heaven, give good things to those who ask him12Therefore, all things whatsoever that you wish that men would do to you, do so also to them. For this is the law and the prophets
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Esther presents a moment of profound crisis and trust. Esther, facing imminent danger, turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His intervention. Her plea is not just for herself but for her people, demonstrating a selfless faith that trusts in God's providence. This story, rooted in the Jewish scriptures, highlights Esther's courage and reliance on God, setting an example for us when we face our own challenges.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' teachings on prayer and ethical living. Jesus assures us that God, our loving Father, will respond to our needs when we ask with faith. He uses the analogy of a father giving good gifts to his children to illustrate God's generosity. Jesus then extends this teaching to the golden rule, urging us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This principle, central to the Sermon on the Mount, calls us to live with compassion and kindness, reflecting God's love in our actions.
These readings connect through their emphasis on trust and ethical behavior. Esther's trust in God's deliverance is mirrored in Jesus' assurance of God's provision. Both challenge us to live out our faith in daily life. When facing difficulties, we can draw strength from Esther's example, trusting in God's plan. Similarly, in our interactions, we are called to embody the golden rule, treating others with the same love and respect we desire. This dual focus on faith and action reminds us that our relationship with God is not just about belief but also about how we live and treat others. Let us strive to trust God deeply and love our neighbors genuinely, reflecting His grace in all we do.