Daily Readings - Wed Sep 08 2021
First Reading - Romans 8.28-30 or Micah 5.2-5a
Romans
28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Micah
2But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.3Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel.4And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.5And this man shall be the peace, when the Assyrian shall come into our land: and when he shall tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds, and eight principal men.
Matthew
18Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.19Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily.20But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.21And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.22Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,23Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about God's providence and trust. The first reading from Romans 8:28-30 reminds us that for those who love God, all things work together for good. This passage, rooted in St. Paul's theology, offers comfort, assuring us that our lives are part of a larger divine plan. It speaks of predestination, calling, justification, and glorification, highlighting God's transformative work in believers' lives.
The Gospel, Matthew 1:18-23, presents Joseph's dilemma upon discovering Mary's pregnancy. Joseph's initial uncertainty is met with an angel's reassurance, urging him not to fear and explaining the divine origin of Mary's child. This narrative exemplifies trust and obedience, showing how Joseph's faith in God's plan allowed him to embrace the unexpected. His story connects with Romans by illustrating how God's plan unfolds through human lives, even in challenging circumstances.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to trust in God's providence, especially during uncertainty. Like Joseph, we are called to obey and have faith, knowing God is always present. The concept of Emmanuel, "God with us," is a powerful reminder of His constant presence. Let us draw strength from this truth, trusting that God works all things for our good, and may we, like Joseph, faithfully follow His will.