Daily Readings - Fri Jun 16 2017

First Reading - 2 Corinthians 4.7-15

⁷But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.⁸We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;⁹Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;¹⁰Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.¹¹For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.¹²So then death worketh in us, but life in you.¹³We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;¹⁴Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you.¹⁵For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.

Gospel - Matthew 5.27-32

Matthew

Chapter 5

²⁷Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:²⁸But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.²⁹And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.³⁰And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.³¹It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement:³²But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

Sermon

In today's readings, we reflect on two profound teachings from Scripture that guide us in our Christian journey. The first reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our human frailty is where God's power shines through. Paul emphasizes enduring trials with faith, trusting that our sufferings allow Christ's life to manifest in us. This passage is part of his discussion on ministry, highlighting the transformative power of faith amidst adversity. The Gospel from Matthew challenges us to consider the depth of God's law. Jesus expands the commandment against adultery to include the intentions of our hearts, urging us to address sin radically, even if it means sacrificing our desires. This teaching from the Sermon on the Mount calls us to purity beyond outward actions, focusing on the integrity of our thoughts and intentions. Both readings converge on the theme of internal transformation and reliance on God's power. They remind us that our response to trials and sin is not just about outward actions but about the state of our hearts. In daily life, this means facing challenges with faith and examining our thoughts and intentions to live with purity. Let us trust in God's power through trials and strive for a life of integrity, allowing His light to shine through our frailty.