Daily Readings - Sun Jun 25 2017
Romans
12Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned--13for sin indeed was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not counted where there is no law.14Yet death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those whose sinning was not like the transgression of Adam, who was a type of the one who was to come.15But the free gift is not like the trespass. For if many died through one man's trespass, much more have the grace of God and the free gift by the grace of that one man Jesus Christ abounded for many.
Matthew
26"So have no fear of them, for nothing is covered that will not be revealed, or hidden that will not be known.27What I tell you in the dark, say in the light, and what you hear whispered, proclaim on the housetops.28And do not fear those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather fear him who can destroy both soul and body in hell.29Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? And not one of them will fall to the ground apart from your Father.30But even the hairs of your head are all numbered.31Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.32So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in heaven,33but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about sin, grace, and the courage to live our faith fearlessly. The Second Reading from Romans reminds us that through Adam, sin and death entered the world, but through Christ, God's grace abounds even more abundantly. This theological foundation underscores the transformative power of God's love. In the Gospel, Matthew shares Jesus' words of encouragement to His disciples, urging them not to fear persecution or death, for they are valued by God, who even knows the number of hairs on their heads. Jesus emphasizes that acknowledging Him before others will be reciprocated by the Father in heaven.
The context of these readings is rooted in the early Christian experience. Paul, in Romans, contrasts Adam and Christ, highlighting the redemptive act of Jesus. This contrast serves as a theological underpinning for understanding the nature of sin and grace. In Matthew, Jesus prepares His disciples for the challenges they will face, encouraging them to trust in God's providence and care. Together, these readings bridge the theological and the practical, offering both a understanding of God's plan and the courage to live it out.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are reminded to face challenges with faith, trusting in God's love and care. Just as the disciples were called to be bold, we too are called to live our faith openly, unafraid of what others may think or do. The moral lesson here is one of trust and courage—trusting in God's love and living as His children with confidence. Let us embrace this call, knowing we are valued and loved beyond measure, and let our lives reflect the grace we have received.