Daily Readings - Sat Aug 21 2021
Ruth
1And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz.2And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.3And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech.8Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens:9Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn.10Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?11And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore.
13So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.14And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel.15And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him.16And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it.17And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.
Matthew
1Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,2Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat:3All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.4For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.5But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments,6And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues,7And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.8But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren.9And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.10Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ.11But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.12And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct narratives that invite us to reflect on humility, faith, and true leadership. The story of Ruth, a Moabite woman, exemplifies loyalty and humility. Despite her difficult circumstances, Ruth dedicates herself to her mother-in-law Naomi, working diligently in Boaz's field. Her actions demonstrate a deep commitment to her family and community, ultimately leading to her integration into the family of Israel and becoming an ancestor of King David. This narrative underscores the importance of perseverance and trust in God's providence.
In contrast, the Gospel reading from Matthew presents Jesus critiquing the scribes and Pharisees for their hypocrisy. Jesus emphasizes the need to follow teachings but not the hollow actions of those who seek recognition rather than serving others. This passage calls us to examine our own actions and intentions, urging us to embody humility and genuine faith rather than seeking external validation.
These readings challenge us to live out our faith authentically, embracing humility and service. Like Ruth, we are called to act with integrity and compassion, trusting in God's plan. Jesus reminds us that true leadership is about serving others, not seeking praise. Let us strive to cultivate these virtues in our daily lives, allowing our actions to reflect our faith and commitment to serving one another.