Daily Readings - Tue Aug 10 2021
2 Corinthians
6But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.7Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.8And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:9As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.10Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
John
24Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.25He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.26If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of generosity and self-giving love. The Second Reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our generosity is not just about what we give, but how we give. Paul encourages us to give cheerfully, knowing that God provides abundantly so that we can abound in good works. This passage is part of Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians to contribute generously to the collection for the Jerusalem church, emphasizing trust in God’s providence and the joy of giving.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus teaching His disciples about the necessity of self-sacrifice. Using the metaphor of the grain of wheat, Jesus explains that true life comes through dying to oneself. This passage is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse, where He prepares His disciples for His departure and calls them to follow His example of service and love. Both readings converge on the theme of surrender and generosity, whether it be material resources or one’s very life.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to examine how we give—whether it is with hesitation or with openness of heart. Jesus’ words remind us that true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of our own desires for the sake of others. As we strive to follow Christ, may we embrace the grace of generosity, trusting that God will multiply our efforts and bring forth abundant fruit. Let us pray for the courage to give freely, knowing that in surrendering our lives to God, we find true life and eternal reward.