Daily Readings - Sun Feb 16 2020
1 Corinthians
6Yet among the mature we do impart wisdom, although it is not a wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are doomed to pass away.7But we impart a secret and hidden wisdom of God, which God decreed before the ages for our glory.8None of the rulers of this age understood this, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.9But, as it is written, "What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him"--10these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God.
Matthew
17"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.20For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.21"You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.'22But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, 'You fool!' will be liable to the hell of fire.23So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you,24leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.27"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.'28But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart.33"Again you have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform to the Lord what you have sworn.'34But I say to you, Do not take an oath at all, either by heaven, for it is the throne of God,37Let what you say be simply 'Yes' or 'No'; anything more than this comes from evil.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of God’s wisdom, the importance of moral choices, and the call to live a life of integrity and sincerity. In the first reading from Sirach, we are reminded that God has set before us the choices of life and death, good and evil. The author emphasizes that our choices have consequences and that fidelity to God’s commandments is essential for living a virtuous life. This wisdom is not just about external actions but about the disposition of our hearts.
In the second reading from Corinthians, St. Paul speaks of the hidden wisdom of God, which surpasses human understanding. This wisdom is revealed through the Spirit and is rooted in the mystery of God’s plan for our salvation. Paul contrasts this divine wisdom with the fleeting wisdom of the world, which is destined to pass away. The reading encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of God’s plan and to trust in His providence.
In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us about the fulfillment of the law and the importance of living a life of radical righteousness. He goes beyond the external observance of the law and calls us to examine our hearts. Jesus warns against anger, lust, and false oaths, emphasizing that true righteousness must transform our inner lives. He calls us to reconciliation, sincerity, and a commitment to living according to the spirit of the law rather than just its letter.
These readings remind us that our faith is not just about rules or external practices but about a profound transformation of the heart. God’s wisdom calls us to make choices that reflect His love and justice, even when it is challenging. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to live with integrity, seeking to align our actions and intentions with God’s will. May we embrace the wisdom of God, which reveals the depths of His love and mercy, and may we allow that wisdom to guide us in all we do.