Daily Readings - Thu Mar 02 2023
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 crisis where Esther, a Jewish queen, turns to God in desperation. Facing the threat of persecution, she prays fervently, seeking courage and the right words to persuade King Ahasuerus to save her people. Her prayer is a testament to trust in divine providence, even in the face of overwhelming adversity.
The Gospel from Matthew continues this theme of trust and prayer. Jesus teaches us to ask, seek, and knock with persistence, assuring us that our Heavenly Father, unlike earthly fathers, will always provide good gifts. He concludes with the golden rule, urging us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This teaching emphasizes a life of prayer and ethical living, reflecting God’s love and justice.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on prayer and trust in a loving God. Esther’s prayer exemplifies the kind of faithful petition Jesus describes. Her story and Jesus’ teachings remind us to approach life’s challenges with prayerful hearts and to live out the golden rule in our daily interactions. May we, like Esther, trust in God’s providence and, as Jesus taught, strive to love and serve others as we would have them do unto us.