Daily Readings - Sat Jun 17 2017
First Reading - 2 Corinthians 5.14-21
2 Corinthians
14For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:15And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.16Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.18And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;19To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.20Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.21For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Gospel - Matthew 5.33-37
Matthew
33Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:34But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:35Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.36Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.37But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we reflect on themes of reconciliation and authenticity. The Second Reading from 2 Corinthians emphasizes our new life in Christ, urging us to be ambassadors of reconciliation. Paul writes that through Christ’s death and resurrection, we are made new, called to live not for ourselves but for Him. This transformation is a gift from God, enabling us to see others through the lens of grace and mercy. In the Gospel from Matthew, Jesus teaches about the simplicity of truth, instructing us to let our words be truthful without the need for oaths. He warns that anything beyond a simple “yes” or “no” comes from evil, highlighting the importance of integrity in our speech.
These readings, though from different contexts, are deeply connected. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians was written to a community grappling with division, urging them to embrace their reconciled state in Christ. Similarly, Matthew’s Gospel excerpt is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus challenges his followers to live authentically. Together, they call us to a life transformed by Christ, where our actions and words reflect His presence within us. The connection lies in the call to authenticity and reconciliation, reminding us that our faith should permeate every aspect of our lives.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are called to be peacemakers and truth-tellers. As reconcilers, we should seek to heal divisions in our communities and families. In our interactions, let us strive to be people of our word, demonstrating integrity in all we say and do. This not only builds trust but also reflects the character of Christ. The moral lesson here is profound: our new life in Christ compels us to live with authenticity and compassion. May we embrace this call, allowing the love of Christ to transform us and shine through us, inspiring others to seek reconciliation and truth.