Daily Readings - Sat Sep 21 2024
Ephesians
1I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called,2with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love,3eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.4There is one body and one Spirit--just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call--5one Lord, one faith, one baptism,6one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.7But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.11And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers,12to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,13until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
Matthew
9As Jesus passed on from there, he saw a man called Matthew sitting at the tax booth, and he said to him, "Follow me." And he rose and followed him.10And as Jesus reclined at table in the house, behold, many tax collectors and sinners came and were reclining with Jesus and his disciples.11And when the Pharisees saw this, they said to his disciples, "Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?"12But when he heard it, he said, "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick.13Go and learn what this means, 'I desire mercy, and not sacrifice.' For I came not to call the righteous, but sinners."
Sermon
In today's readings, we are reminded of the importance of unity and inclusion in the Christian life. The first reading from Ephesians emphasizes the unity of the Spirit and the diverse gifts given to each believer for the edification of the body of Christ. Paul urges humility, patience, and charity, recognizing that each person has a unique role in the Church. The Gospel from Matthew illustrates Jesus' inclusive ministry, as he calls Matthew, a tax collector, and dines with sinners, challenging the Pharisees' judgmental attitudes. Jesus' response highlights the importance of mercy over sacrifice, underscoring his mission to call sinners rather than the righteous.
The context of Ephesians is a letter to the early Christian community in Ephesus, encouraging unity amidst diversity. Paul's words remind us that the Church is one body with many members, each contributing their unique gifts. In Matthew, Jesus' actions challenge societal norms, emphasizing compassion and inclusion. These readings together teach us that true Christian living involves embracing diversity and showing mercy.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are called to recognize and value the diverse roles within our communities. We should approach others with humility and patience, understanding that each person has a place in the body of Christ. Just as Jesus reached out to outcasts, we too should practice inclusion and compassion. The moral lesson here is clear: Christian living is about unity, humility, and mercy. Let us strive to build a community where everyone feels valued, reflecting the inclusive love of Christ.