Daily Readings - Fri Aug 09 2024
Nahum
15Behold, upon the mountains, the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace! Keep your feasts, O Judah; fulfill your vows, for never again shall the worthless pass through you; he is utterly cut off.
2For the LORD is restoring the majesty of Jacob as the majesty of Israel, for plunderers have plundered them and ruined their branches.
1Woe to the bloody city, all full of lies and plunder--no end to the prey!2The crack of the whip, and rumble of the wheel, galloping horse and bounding chariot!3Horsemen charging, flashing sword and glittering spear, hosts of slain, heaps of corpses, dead bodies without end--they stumble over the bodies!6I will throw filth at you and treat you with contempt and make you a spectacle.7And all who look at you will shrink from you and say, Wasted is Nineveh; who will grieve for her? Where shall I seek comforters for you?
Matthew
24Then Jesus told his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.25For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.26For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his life? Or what shall a man give in return for his life?27For the Son of Man is going to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay each person according to what he has done.28Truly, I say to you, there are some standing here who will not taste death until they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."
Sermon
Today’s readings present a powerful juxtaposition of judgment and redemption, urging us to reflect on our choices and commitments. The first reading from Nahum depicts the downfall of Nineveh, a city consumed by bloodshed, lies, and violence. Nahum’s prophecy underscores the consequences of turning away from God, highlighting the desolation and scattering of a people who have embraced sin. This serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of neglecting divine callings and the importance of moral accountability.
In contrast, the Gospel reading from Matthew offers a call to discipleship, as Jesus invites His followers to embrace self-denial and take up their cross. He emphasizes that true life is found in losing oneself for His sake, cautioning against prioritizing worldly gains over spiritual wealth. This passage is a classic call to prioritize faith, urging believers to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary comforts.
These readings together invite us to consider our own path. Nahum’s prophecy warns against the consequences of sin, while Matthew’s call to discipleship offers a transformative alternative. As we navigate our daily lives, we are reminded to reflect on our choices and commitments. Following Christ requires sacrifice, yet it promises a life of purpose and fulfillment. Let us commit to living with integrity, prioritizing spiritual values, and embracing the challenges of discipleship with hope and courage.