Daily Readings - Wed Jul 25 2018
2 Corinthians
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.
Matthew
20Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him.21And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.22But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able.23And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father.24And when the ten heard it, they were moved with indignation against the two brethren.25But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.26But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;27And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:28Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons on humility, service, and the nature of true greatness. The second reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our human frailty is a vessel for God's power, urging us to endure trials with faith, knowing that the life of Jesus is manifested through our struggles. The Gospel from Matthew presents a stark contrast between worldly ambition and Christian humility. Jesus teaches that true leadership is not about power but about serving others, as He himself came not to be served, but to serve.
These readings invite us to reflect on our own approach to challenges and relationships. In a world often driven by competition and status, we are called to redefine greatness through selflessness and humility. Just as Paul's earthen vessels highlight God's strength, our struggles can be opportunities to rely on divine grace. Jesus's teaching challenges us to embrace a life of service, where our actions reflect a commitment to others rather than personal gain.
As we navigate our daily lives, let us seek to embody this spirit of humility and service. In our interactions, may we choose to serve rather than seek power, and in our struggles, may we find strength in God's presence. Through this, we can live as true disciples, redefining greatness in a way that honors Jesus and brings light to the world.