Daily Readings - Tue Sep 08 2020
First Reading - Romans 8.28-30 or Micah 5.2-5a
Romans
28And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.29For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.30And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.
Micah
2But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.3Therefore he shall give them up until the time when she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of his brothers shall return to the people of Israel.4And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great to the ends of the earth.5And he shall be their peace.When the Assyrian comes into our land and treads in our palaces, then we will raise against him seven shepherds and eight princes of men;
Matthew
18Now the birth of Jesus Christ took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been betrothed to Joseph, before they came together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.19And her husband Joseph, being a just man and unwilling to put her to shame, resolved to divorce her quietly.20But as he considered these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, "Joseph, son of David, do not fear to take Mary as your wife, for that which is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.21She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins."22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had spoken by the prophet:23"Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel"(which means, God with us).
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of trust and divine presence. The first reading from Romans 8:28-30 assures us that God works all things for good for those who love Him, outlining a journey from predestination to glorification. This passage is part of Paul's broader discussion on suffering and God's sovereignty, reassuring believers of His plan. The Gospel, Matthew 1:18-23, narrates Joseph's discovery of Mary's pregnancy and the angel's reassurance. This story, part of the infancy narrative, highlights Joseph's righteousness and obedience, fulfilling the prophecy of Emmanuel, meaning "God is with us."
Both readings emphasize trust in God's plan. Romans provides the theological foundation, while Matthew offers a practical example through Joseph's obedient trust despite uncertainty. This relationship between the readings shows that understanding God's overarching plan is lived out in concrete, faithful actions.
In daily life, we face uncertainties where God's plan isn't clear. Like Joseph, we're called to trust, even when circumstances confuse us. The moral lesson here is profound: God is always present, working through all events. Trusting Him means embracing His plan, even when it's challenging. This trust brings peace, knowing God is with us, just as He was with Joseph and Mary. Let us, like Joseph, step into the unknown with faith, trusting that God's presence guides us through life's complexities.