Daily Readings - Wed Aug 02 2023
Exodus
29When Moses came down from Mount Sinai, with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand as he came down from the mountain, Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone because he had been talking with God.30Aaron and all the people of Israel saw Moses, and behold, the skin of his face shone, and they were afraid to come near him.31But Moses called to them, and Aaron and all the leaders of the congregation returned to him, and Moses talked with them.32Afterward all the people of Israel came near, and he commanded them all that the LORD had spoken with him in Mount Sinai.33And when Moses had finished speaking with them, he put a veil over his face.34Whenever Moses went in before the LORD to speak with him, he would remove the veil, until he came out. And when he came out and told the people of Israel what he was commanded,35the people of Israel would see the face of Moses, that the skin of Moses' face was shining. And Moses would put the veil over his face again, until he went in to speak with him.
Matthew
44"The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.45"Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls,46who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound moments of divine encounter and transformation. The first reading from Exodus describes Moses descending from Mount Sinai with the tablets of the covenant, his face radiant after speaking with God. This radiance, a physical manifestation of his spiritual encounter, inspires both awe and fear in the people, prompting Moses to wear a veil except when he is in God's presence. This passage underscores the transformative power of being in God's presence and the reverence it inspires.
The Gospel from Matthew presents two parables: the hidden treasure and the pearl of great value. Both illustrate the joy and sacrifice involved in seeking the Kingdom of Heaven. The treasure, once found, is so cherished that one sells all possessions to acquire it. Similarly, the merchant, upon finding the pearl, sells everything to purchase it. These parables highlight the invaluable nature of spiritual truth and the commitment required to pursue it.
These readings, though from different contexts, share a common theme of transformation and commitment. Moses' radiance symbolizes the impact of divine encounter, while the parables emphasize the joy and sacrifice of seeking spiritual riches. In our daily lives, we are called to seek God with such dedication, allowing His presence to transform us. Just as Moses' encounter changed him, our pursuit of God should lead to a life of commitment and joy, reflecting the divine light within us. Let us strive to prioritize our spiritual journey, embracing the transformation it brings, and cherish the invaluable gift of God's Kingdom.