Daily Readings - Fri Sep 08 2023
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 assures us that all things work together for good for those who love God. This passage is part of Paul's larger discussion on the relationship between suffering and glory, emphasizing that God's plan is always at work, even in uncertain times. The Gospel from Matthew 1:18-23 presents the story of Joseph, a righteous man faced with a perplexing situation. Joseph's trust in God's plan, despite initial confusion, exemplifies unwavering faith and obedience.
The readings are connected through the theme of trust in God's plan. In Romans, Paul reassures believers that God's plan is always for their good, even when circumstances seem challenging. In Matthew, Joseph's trust is evident as he accepts Mary's miraculous pregnancy, guided by an angel's message. Both readings highlight the importance of trusting God, even when His plan is unclear.
Applying this to daily life, we are reminded to trust God during uncertain times. Just as Joseph trusted despite confusion, we too can face life's challenges with faith. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan, knowing He works all things for our good. This trust brings peace and strength, guiding us through life's uncertainties.