Daily Catholic Mass Readings for June 15, 2019
First Reading: 2 Corinthians 5.14-21
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.
Psalm 103
1Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.2Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:3Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;4Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;5Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.6The LORD executeth righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.7He made known his ways unto Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.8The LORD is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.9He will not always chide: neither will he keep his anger for ever.10He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.11For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is his mercy toward them that fear him.12As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us.13Like as a father pitieth his children, so the LORD pitieth them that fear him.14For he knoweth our frame; he remembereth that we are dust.15As for man, his days are as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.16For the wind passeth over it, and it is gone; and the place thereof shall know it no more.17But the mercy of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children's children;18To such as keep his covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.19The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.20Bless the LORD, ye his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening unto the voice of his word.21Bless ye the LORD, all ye his hosts; ye ministers of his, that do his pleasure.22Bless the LORD, all his works in all places of his dominion: bless the LORD, O my soul.
Gospel: Matthew 5.33-37
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 explore profound teachings from 2 Corinthians and Matthew, both guiding us toward a life of authenticity and reconciliation. The passage from 2 Corinthians emphasizes our new identity in Christ, urging us to live as ambassadors of reconciliation, entrusted with the mission of restoring relationships between God and humanity. This is rooted in the belief that Christ's death and resurrection have transformed us, making us new creations. The Gospel from Matthew complements this by highlighting the importance of integrity in our speech, as Jesus teaches us to avoid oaths and instead let our "Yes" mean "Yes" and our "No" mean "No." This teaching underscores the value of truthfulness and simplicity in our interactions.
These readings, while distinct, are interconnected in their call to authentic living. In 2 Corinthians, Paul's focus is on the transformative power of Christ, urging believers to embrace their role in reconciling others to God. This transformation is not just internal but also external, manifesting in how we live and interact. Matthew's teaching on honesty ties into this by illustrating that our words and actions are integral to living out our faith. By being truthful and reliable, we reflect the character of Christ, fostering trust and reconciliation in our relationships.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are reminded to approach each interaction with honesty and integrity. Whether in personal relationships, professional dealings, or community engagements, our commitment to truthfulness and simplicity in speech is a form of reconciliation. It builds trust and fosters understanding, reflecting our identity as new creations in Christ. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us strive to be ambassadors of reconciliation, not just in grand gestures, but in the everyday moments where our words and actions can bring healing and unity.
The moral lesson here is clear: our faith is not just about belief but about how we live and interact. By embracing honesty and integrity, we embody the love and truth of Christ, contributing to a world in need of reconciliation. Let us prayerfully consider how we can live out this calling, allowing the transformative power of Christ to shine through us in every word and deed.