Daily Readings - Tue Feb 20 2024
Isaiah
10And in the same manner as rain and snow descend from heaven, and no longer return there, but soak the earth, and water it, and cause it to bloom and to provide seed to the sower and bread to the hungry11so also will my word be, which will go forth from my mouth. It will not return to me empty, but it will accomplish whatever I will, and it will prosper in the tasks for which I sent it
Matthew
7And when praying, do not choose many words, as the pagans do. For they think that by their excess of words they might be heeded8Therefore, do not choose to imitate them. For your Father knows what your needs may be, even before you ask him9Therefore, you shall pray in this way: Our Father, who is in heaven: May your name be kept holy10May your kingdom come. May your will be done, as in heaven, so also on earth11Give us this day our life-sustaining bread12And forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors13And lead us not into temptation. But free us from evil. Amen14For if you will forgive men their sins, your heavenly Father also will forgive you your offenses15But if you will not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive you your sins
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the power of God’s word and the simplicity of prayer. In the first reading from Isaiah, we hear a beautiful analogy: just as rain and snow nourish the earth and bring forth life, so too does God’s word accomplish its purpose in the world. It is a reminder that God’s word is not empty or without effect; it brings life, hope, and transformation to those who receive it. This passage was written during a time of hope for the people of Israel, promising them that even in their darkest moments, God’s word would bring renewal and restoration.
In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us about prayer. He warns against the tendency to use many words, as if the quantity of our prayers might impress God. Instead, He offers the Lord’s Prayer as a model of simplicity and depth. This prayer, taught by Jesus, is not just a formula to recite but a way of life. It calls us to trust in God’s providence, to seek His will, and to live with mercy and forgiveness. Forgiveness, in particular, is emphasized as a condition for receiving God’s forgiveness. This teaching challenges us to examine our relationships and our willingness to let go of grudges and resentments.
Together, these readings remind us that our relationship with God is rooted in trust and simplicity. Just as God’s word is effective and life-giving, our prayers should be heartfelt and sincere. The Lord’s Prayer teaches us to approach God with humility and confidence, knowing that He knows our needs before we even ask. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to live out these teachings: to trust in God’s word, to pray with simplicity, and to forgive as we have been forgiven. In doing so, we align our lives with God’s will and open ourselves to the transformative power of His grace.