Daily Readings - Fri Mar 14 2025
Ezekiel
21"But if a wicked person turns away from all his sins that he has committed and keeps all my statutes and does what is just and right, he shall surely live; he shall not die.22None of the transgressions that he has committed shall be remembered against him; for the righteousness that he has done he shall live.23Have I any pleasure in the death of the wicked, declares the Lord GOD, and not rather that he should turn from his way and live?24But when a righteous person turns away from his righteousness and does injustice and does the same abominations that the wicked person does, shall he live? None of the righteous deeds that he has done shall be remembered; for the treachery of which he is guilty and the sin he has committed, for them he shall die.25"Yet you say, 'The way of the Lord is not just.' Hear now, O house of Israel: Is my way not just? Is it not your ways that are not just?26When a righteous person turns away from his righteousness and does injustice, he shall die for it; for the injustice that he has done he shall die.27Again, when a wicked person turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he shall save his life.28Because he considered and turned away from all the transgressions that he had committed, he shall surely live; he shall not die.
Matthew
20For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.21"You have heard that it was said to those of old, 'You shall not murder; and whoever murders will be liable to judgment.'22But I say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment; whoever insults his brother will be liable to the council; and whoever says, 'You fool!' will be liable to the hell of fire.23So if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you,24leave your gift there before the altar and go. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift.25Come to terms quickly with your accuser while you are going with him to court, lest your accuser hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the guard, and you be put in prison.26Truly, I say to you, you will never get out until you have paid the last penny.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of personal responsibility and moral integrity. Ezekiel emphasizes that our actions shape our destiny, urging us to turn away from sin and embrace righteousness. He counters the belief that one suffers for another's sins, highlighting individual accountability. This message underscores God's justice, where each person's choices determine their fate.
In the Gospel, Matthew expands on this theme as Jesus teaches that true righteousness goes beyond outward actions. He deepens the commandment against murder to include anger and insults, stressing the need for reconciliation. Jesus illustrates this by advising us to mend relationships before worship and to resolve disputes promptly, highlighting the consequences of unresolved conflicts.
Both readings connect through their focus on personal responsibility and the depth of moral integrity required. Ezekiel's call to individual accountability aligns with Jesus' emphasis on heartfelt righteousness. They remind us that our choices have consequences and that we must actively seek reconciliation and live with integrity.
In daily life, this means recognizing the impact of our actions and attitudes, turning away from sin, and seeking forgiveness. We are called to reflect on our interactions, ensuring they are marked by love and respect. The moral lesson is clear: God's justice is fair, and our commitment to holiness and reconciliation is essential. Let us strive to live in accordance with these teachings, embracing the justice and mercy that define God's love.