Daily Readings - Tue Aug 10 2021
2 Corinthians
6The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully.7Each one must give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.9As it is written, "He has distributed freely, he has given to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."10He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness.
John
24Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.25Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.26If anyone serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there will my servant be also. If anyone serves me, the Father will honor him.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of generosity and self-giving love. The Second Reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our generosity is not just about what we give, but how we give. Paul encourages us to give cheerfully, knowing that God provides abundantly so that we can abound in good works. This passage is part of Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians to contribute generously to the collection for the Jerusalem church, emphasizing trust in God’s providence and the joy of giving.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus teaching His disciples about the necessity of self-sacrifice. Using the metaphor of the grain of wheat, Jesus explains that true life comes through dying to oneself. This passage is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse, where He prepares His disciples for His departure and calls them to follow His example of service and love. Both readings converge on the theme of surrender and generosity, whether it be material resources or one’s very life.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to examine how we give—whether it is with hesitation or with openness of heart. Jesus’ words remind us that true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of our own desires for the sake of others. As we strive to follow Christ, may we embrace the grace of generosity, trusting that God will multiply our efforts and bring forth abundant fruit. Let us pray for the courage to give freely, knowing that in surrendering our lives to God, we find true life and eternal reward.