Daily Readings - Tue Jun 13 2017

First Reading - 2 Corinthians 1.18-22

But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, even by me and Silvanus and Timotheus, was not yea and nay, but in him was yea.For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.

Gospel - Matthew 5.13-16

Matthew

Chapter 5

Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

Sermon

In today's readings, we hear powerful messages about faithfulness and influence. The first reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us of God's unwavering faithfulness, as Paul reassures the Corinthian church that despite human frailties, God's promises are always fulfilled in Christ. The Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus teaching on the mount, using salt and light as metaphors for the transformative role believers should play in the world. The context of these readings is crucial. Paul, addressing a church facing uncertainties, emphasizes God's reliability, contrasting it with human inconsistency. Jesus, in His sermon, challenges His followers to recognize their impact on society, urging them to maintain their integrity and visibility. Both readings highlight the importance of trustworthiness and influence, linking the internal faith of believers to their external impact. Applying these teachings to our lives, we are called to embody our faith authentically. Just as salt must retain its flavor to season and preserve, and light must shine brightly to guide, we must stay true to our beliefs and actively share God's message. The moral lesson here is clear: our faith should not be hidden but should inspire and transform those around us. Let us strive to be faithful and influential, reflecting God's love in all we do.