Daily Readings - Sun Aug 20 2017
Romans
13Now I am speaking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch then as I am an apostle to the Gentiles, I magnify my ministry14in order somehow to make my fellow Jews jealous, and thus save some of them.15For if their rejection means the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance mean but life from the dead?29For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.30Just as you were at one time disobedient to God but now have received mercy because of their disobedience,31so they too have now been disobedient in order that by the mercy shown to you they also may now receive mercy.32For God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.
Matthew
21And Jesus went away from there and withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon.22And behold, a Canaanite woman from that region came out and was crying, "Have mercy on me, O Lord, Son of David; my daughter is severely oppressed by a demon."23But he did not answer her a word. And his disciples came and begged him, saying, "Send her away, for she is crying out after us."24He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel."25But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me."26And he answered, "It is not right to take the children's bread and throw it to the dogs."27She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."28Then Jesus answered her, "O woman, great is your faith! Be it done for you as you desire." And her daughter was healed instantly.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the universal nature of God's mercy and the power of persistent faith. In Romans, Paul addresses the Gentiles, emphasizing that God's gifts are irrevocable and that His mercy extends beyond the Jews to all people. He explains that the Gentiles' inclusion in God's plan is a result of the Jews' unbelief, yet both are called to receive God's mercy. This theological discussion underscores the idea that God's plan is inclusive, embracing all humanity.
In the Gospel, Matthew recounts the story of a Canaanite woman who approaches Jesus for her daughter's healing. Initially, Jesus seems reluctant, focusing on his mission to the lost sheep of Israel. However, the woman's persistence and faith move Jesus to act, demonstrating that His mercy is not confined to one group. This narrative illustrates the expansion of God's love beyond cultural and religious boundaries, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance.
These readings remind us that God's love knows no bounds. They encourage us to embrace diversity and inclusion, recognizing that everyone is part of God's plan. Like the Canaanite woman, we should approach life with persistent faith, trusting in God's universal mercy. Let us reflect on our own inclusivity and openness to others, inspired by the lessons of today's readings.