Daily Readings - Wed Sep 08 2021
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 encounter profound truths about God's providence and trust. The first reading from Romans 8:28-30 reminds us that for those who love God, all things work together for good. This passage, rooted in St. Paul's theology, offers comfort, assuring us that our lives are part of a larger divine plan. It speaks of predestination, calling, justification, and glorification, highlighting God's transformative work in believers' lives.
The Gospel, Matthew 1:18-23, presents Joseph's dilemma upon discovering Mary's pregnancy. Joseph's initial uncertainty is met with an angel's reassurance, urging him not to fear and explaining the divine origin of Mary's child. This narrative exemplifies trust and obedience, showing how Joseph's faith in God's plan allowed him to embrace the unexpected. His story connects with Romans by illustrating how God's plan unfolds through human lives, even in challenging circumstances.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to trust in God's providence, especially during uncertainty. Like Joseph, we are called to obey and have faith, knowing God is always present. The concept of Emmanuel, "God with us," is a powerful reminder of His constant presence. Let us draw strength from this truth, trusting that God works all things for our good, and may we, like Joseph, faithfully follow His will.