Daily Readings - Wed Mar 27 2019
Deuteronomy
1Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you.5Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.6Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.7For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?8And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?9Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons;
Matthew
17Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.18For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.19Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Sermon
Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the enduring importance of God’s laws and their role in guiding our lives. In Deuteronomy, Moses addresses the Israelites, urging them to follow God’s precepts to inherit the Promised Land. He emphasizes that these laws are not just rules but a source of wisdom, setting the Israelites apart as a people close to God. Moses also stresses the importance of passing these teachings to future generations, ensuring the continuity of faith.
In the Gospel, Jesus reaffirms the significance of the law, stating that He has come not to abolish but to fulfill it. He highlights that every part of the law, even the smallest detail, holds importance until all is accomplished. Jesus teaches that true greatness in God’s kingdom comes from both following and teaching these commandments, underscoring the balance between action and instruction.
These readings remind us that God’s laws are not mere regulations but a blueprint for living a life aligned with His will. They call us to integrate faith into our daily decisions and actions, guiding us toward wisdom and integrity. As we navigate life’s challenges, let us embrace God’s teachings, not as constraints, but as a path to transformation and greatness in His eyes. By living and sharing these truths, we honor our faith and contribute to a world that values justice, compassion, and love.