Daily Readings - Fri Aug 09 2024
Nahum
15Behold, over the mountains, the feet of the Evangelizer and the Announcer of peace. Judah, celebrate your festivals and keep your vows. For Belial will never again pass through you; he has completely passed away
2For the Lord has repaid the arrogance of Jacob, just like the arrogance of Israel. For the despoilers have scattered them, and they have corrupted their procreation
1Woe to the city of blood, filled with all manner of lies and violence. Crime shall not depart from you2the voice of the whip, and the voice of the turning wheels, and of the neighing horse, and the burning chariot, and the horsemen who ride3and of the flashing sword and the shining spear, and of a multitude executed and a grievous ruination. Neither is there an end to the dead bodies, and they will fall down upon their dead bodies6And I will cast abominations over you, and I will afflict you with abuse, and I will make an example of you7And this shall be: everyone who sees you, will recoil from you, and he will say: "Nineveh has been devastated." Who will shake his head over you? Where might I seek consolation for you
Matthew
24Then Jesus said to his disciples: "If anyone is willing to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me25For whoever would save his life, will lose it. But whoever will have lost his life for my sake, shall find it26For how does it benefit a man, if he gains the whole world, yet truly suffers damage to his soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul27For the Son of man will arrive in the glory of his Father, with his Angels. And then he will repay each one according to his works28Amen I say to you, there are some among those standing here, who shall not taste death, until they see the Son of man arriving in his reign.
Sermon
Today’s readings present a powerful juxtaposition of judgment and redemption, urging us to reflect on our choices and commitments. The first reading from Nahum depicts the downfall of Nineveh, a city consumed by bloodshed, lies, and violence. Nahum’s prophecy underscores the consequences of turning away from God, highlighting the desolation and scattering of a people who have embraced sin. This serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of neglecting divine callings and the importance of moral accountability.
In contrast, the Gospel reading from Matthew offers a call to discipleship, as Jesus invites His followers to embrace self-denial and take up their cross. He emphasizes that true life is found in losing oneself for His sake, cautioning against prioritizing worldly gains over spiritual wealth. This passage is a classic call to prioritize faith, urging believers to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary comforts.
These readings together invite us to consider our own path. Nahum’s prophecy warns against the consequences of sin, while Matthew’s call to discipleship offers a transformative alternative. As we navigate our daily lives, we are reminded to reflect on our choices and commitments. Following Christ requires sacrifice, yet it promises a life of purpose and fulfillment. Let us commit to living with integrity, prioritizing spiritual values, and embracing the challenges of discipleship with hope and courage.