Daily Readings - Thu Feb 25 2021
Matthew
7Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:8For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.9Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?10Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent?11If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?12Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Esther presents a moment of profound crisis and trust. Esther, facing imminent danger, turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His intervention. Her plea is not just for herself but for her people, demonstrating a selfless faith that trusts in God's providence. This story, rooted in the Jewish scriptures, highlights Esther's courage and reliance on God, setting an example for us when we face our own challenges.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' teachings on prayer and ethical living. Jesus assures us that God, our loving Father, will respond to our needs when we ask with faith. He uses the analogy of a father giving good gifts to his children to illustrate God's generosity. Jesus then extends this teaching to the golden rule, urging us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This principle, central to the Sermon on the Mount, calls us to live with compassion and kindness, reflecting God's love in our actions.
These readings connect through their emphasis on trust and ethical behavior. Esther's trust in God's deliverance is mirrored in Jesus' assurance of God's provision. Both challenge us to live out our faith in daily life. When facing difficulties, we can draw strength from Esther's example, trusting in God's plan. Similarly, in our interactions, we are called to embody the golden rule, treating others with the same love and respect we desire. This dual focus on faith and action reminds us that our relationship with God is not just about belief but also about how we live and treat others. Let us strive to trust God deeply and love our neighbors genuinely, reflecting His grace in all we do.