Daily Readings - Sat Aug 13 2022
Ezekiel
1The word of the LORD came to me:2"What do you mean by repeating this proverb concerning the land of Israel, 'The fathers have eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge'?3As I live, declares the Lord GOD, this proverb shall no more be used by you in Israel.4Behold, all souls are mine; the soul of the father as well as the soul of the son is mine: the soul who sins shall die.5"If a man is righteous and does what is just and right--6if he does not eat upon the mountains or lift up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel, does not defile his neighbor's wife or approach a woman in her time of menstrual impurity,7does not oppress anyone, but restores to the debtor his pledge, commits no robbery, gives his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with a garment,8does not lend at interest or take any profit, withholds his hand from injustice, executes true justice between man and man,9walks in my statutes, and keeps my rules by acting faithfully--he is righteous; he shall surely live, declares the Lord GOD.10"If he fathers a son who is violent, a shedder of blood, who does any of these things13lends at interest, and takes profit; shall he then live? He shall not live. He has done all these abominations; he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon himself.30"Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, declares the Lord GOD. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin.31Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel?32For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord GOD; so turn, and live."
Sermon
In today's readings, Ezekiel and Matthew offer profound insights into our relationship with God, emphasizing personal responsibility and humility. Ezekiel's prophecy challenges the Israelites to move beyond blaming their ancestors for their suffering, instead urging each individual to take accountability for their actions. He calls for repentance and a new heart, promising life to those who turn from sin. In Matthew, Jesus teaches that the kingdom of heaven belongs to those who approach God with the humility and innocence of children, blessing them and emphasizing the importance of a pure heart.
Ezekiel's message was directed to the Israelites in exile, countering the belief that their suffering was due to their fathers' sins. He stressed that each person's fate is determined by their own deeds, encouraging them to live justly and compassionately. Matthew's account captures Jesus teaching his disciples, highlighting the need for humility and trust, qualities exemplified by children. Both readings underscore the necessity of a personal, heartfelt response to God, whether through repentance or childlike faith.
In our daily lives, these teachings remind us to embrace personal responsibility, striving to live with justice and compassion. They call us to cultivate humility and openness, approaching God with the simplicity and trust of a child. Let us seek to live with sincere hearts, turning away from sin and embracing the opportunity for conversion, that we may truly live as children of God.