Daily Readings - Wed Jul 25 2018
2 Corinthians
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.8We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair;9persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed;10always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies.11For we who live are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus also may be manifested in our mortal flesh.12So death is at work in us, but life in you.13Since we have the same spirit of faith according to what has been written, "I believed, and so I spoke," we also believe, and so we also speak,14knowing that he who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and bring us with you into his presence.15For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more people it may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God.
Matthew
20Then the mother of the sons of Zebedee came up to him with her sons, and kneeling before him she asked him for something.21And he said to her, "What do you want?" She said to him, "Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom."22Jesus answered, "You do not know what you are asking. Are you able to drink the cup that I am to drink?" They said to him, "We are able."23He said to them, "You will drink my cup, but to sit at my right hand and at my left is not mine to grant, but it is for those for whom it has been prepared by my Father."24And when the ten heard it, they were indignant at the two brothers.25But Jesus called them to him and said, "You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their great ones exercise authority over them.26It shall not be so among you. But whoever would be great among you must be your servant,27and whoever would be first among you must be your slave,28even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons on humility, service, and the nature of true greatness. The second reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our human frailty is a vessel for God's power, urging us to endure trials with faith, knowing that the life of Jesus is manifested through our struggles. The Gospel from Matthew presents a stark contrast between worldly ambition and Christian humility. Jesus teaches that true leadership is not about power but about serving others, as He himself came not to be served, but to serve.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own approach to challenges and relationships. In a world often driven by competition and status, we are called to redefine greatness through selflessness and humility. Just as Paul's earthen vessels highlight God's strength, our struggles can be opportunities to rely on divine grace. Jesus's teaching challenges us to embrace a life of service, where our actions reflect a commitment to others rather than personal gain.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us seek to embody this spirit of humility and service. In our interactions, may we choose to serve rather than seek power, and in our struggles, may we find strength in God's presence. Through this, we can live as true disciples, redefining greatness in a way that honors Jesus and brings light to the world.