Daily Readings - Thu Jul 12 2018
Hosea
1When Israel was a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.3I taught Ephraim also to go, taking them by their arms; but they knew not that I healed them.4I drew them with cords of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.5He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his king, because they refused to return.8How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within me, my repentings are kindled together.9I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not enter into the city.
Matthew
7And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.8Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.9Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,10Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.11And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.12And when ye come into an house, salute it.13And if the house be worthy, let your peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace return to you.14And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words, when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of your feet.15Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons on God's enduring love and our call to faith. The prophet Hosea paints a vivid picture of God's heart, overflowing with compassion for His people, despite their infidelity. God's mercy is not conditional but relentless, a love that heals and lifts up, even when we turn away. This passage reminds us of the depth of divine patience and the boundless forgiveness that defines our Creator.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus instructs His disciples to proclaim the nearness of the kingdom of heaven. He calls them to trust in God's providence, to go forth without worldly attachments, and to share the message of peace and healing. This teaching challenges us to examine our own faith—do we trust God enough to step out in radical love and service? Jesus' words remind us that our mission is not about what we carry with us, but about the love and peace we bring to others.
As we reflect on these readings, we are invited to embrace a life of trust and compassion. Like the disciples, we are called to rely on God's provision and to share His love without reservation. Let us ask ourselves: Where am I being called to trust God more deeply? How can I show His mercy to those around me? May we, like Hosea and the disciples, be instruments of God's love, bringing peace and hope to a world in need.