Daily Readings - Sat Jul 20 2024
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
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of justice and compassion. In Micah, we hear a prophetic warning against those who engage in oppression and injustice. The prophet condemns the powerful who exploit the vulnerable, stealing their land and homes. He warns that such actions will lead to ruin, as God will not tolerate injustice forever. This passage calls us to recognize the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting the weak.
In the Gospel, we see Jesus embodying a different approach to justice. Despite the Pharisees plotting against Him, Jesus chooses not to confront them directly. Instead, He continues His healing ministry, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of a gentle servant who brings hope to all. Jesus' approach is one of compassion and non-violence, showing that true justice is not about power but about care for the marginalized. His example teaches us that justice should be tempered with mercy and humility.
These readings challenge us to live justly and compassionately. Like Micah, we must stand against oppression and arrogance. Like Jesus, we must approach justice with gentleness and care for the weak. In our daily lives, let us strive to follow Jesus' example, working for justice in a way that reflects His love and humility. May we be instruments of God's peace and hope in a world that often prioritizes power over people.