Daily Readings - Thu Jun 20 2024
Matthew
7"And when you pray, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words.8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.9Pray then like this: "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.10Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.11Give us this day our daily bread,12and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.14For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you,15but if you do not forgive others their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Sermon
The first reading from Sirach reminds us of the extraordinary life and ministry of the prophet Elijah, a man of deep faith and unwavering trust in God. Elijah’s story is one of miracles, courage, and divine intervention. He brought fire from heaven, raised the dead, and stood firm against the corruption of his time. Yet, despite his remarkable deeds, Elijah’s greatest legacy was his ability to reconcile and restore—his prayers and actions brought healing to a divided people. This passage invites us to reflect on the power of faith and the importance of trusting in God’s providence, even in the face of adversity.
In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us how to pray with simplicity and sincerity. He warns against the emptiness of many words, as if prayer were a matter of quantity rather than depth. The Lord’s Prayer, which He gives us, is a model of humility and trust. It begins with reverence for God’s name, a desire for His kingdom, and a surrender to His will. It then turns to our needs—daily bread, forgiveness, and protection from evil. Jesus emphasizes that forgiveness is not optional; it is a condition of our own forgiveness. This teaching challenges us to examine our hearts and our relationships, to let go of grudges, and to seek reconciliation.
Both readings call us to live with faith and integrity. Elijah’s life shows us that even in the most challenging times, God’s power can work through us. Jesus’ teaching on prayer reminds us that our relationship with God is personal and intimate, and that forgiveness is at the heart of that relationship. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to trust in God’s plan, to pray with sincerity, and to forgive as we have been forgiven. In doing so, we become instruments of healing and reconciliation, just as Elijah was, and we grow closer to the Father, as Jesus taught.