Daily Readings - Wed Jul 08 2020
Hosea
1Israel is a luxuriant vine that yields its fruit. The more his fruit increased, the more altars he built; as his country improved, he improved his pillars.2Their heart is false; now they must bear their guilt. The LORD will break down their altars and destroy their pillars.3For now they will say: "We have no king, for we do not fear the LORD; and a king--what could he do for us?"7Samaria's king shall perish like a twig on the face of the waters.8The high places of Aven, the sin of Israel, shall be destroyed. Thorn and thistle shall grow up on their altars, and they shall say to the mountains, Cover us, and to the hills, Fall on us.12Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground, for it is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you.
Matthew
1And he called to him his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every affliction.2The names of the twelve apostles are these: first, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother; James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother;3Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus;4Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, who betrayed him.5These twelve Jesus sent out, instructing them, "Go nowhere among the Gentiles and enter no town of the Samaritans,6but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.7And proclaim as you go, saying, 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand.'
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Hosea paints a vivid picture of Israel's unfaithfulness and the ensuing call to repentance. Hosea warns of the consequences of turning away from God, urging the people to seek the Lord and cultivate justice. This passage serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining faithful and vigilant in our relationship with God.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' mission, as He sends out His twelve apostles to preach to the lost sheep of Israel. This passage highlights the expansion of Jesus' ministry and the trust He places in His disciples to spread His message. It underscores the theme of outreach and the responsibility that comes with being disciples of Christ.
Both readings, though distinct, intertwine beautifully. Hosea's call to repentance and justice mirrors Jesus' call to His disciples to spread the message of the kingdom. Together, they remind us to examine our hearts, let go of distractions, and be open to God's mercy. The moral lesson here is clear: we are called to seek justice and live with integrity, trusting in God's providence to guide us. As we navigate our daily lives, may we embrace this call with faith and dedication.