Daily Readings - Tue Jun 28 2022
Amos
1Hear this word that the LORD hath spoken against you, O children of Israel, against the whole family which I brought up from the land of Egypt, saying,2You only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your iniquities.3Can two walk together, except they be agreed?4Will a lion roar in the forest, when he hath no prey? will a young lion cry out of his den, if he have taken nothing?5Can a bird fall in a snare upon the earth, where no gin is for him? shall one take up a snare from the earth, and have taken nothing at all?6Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there be evil in a city, and the LORD hath not done it?7Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.8The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?
Matthew
23And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.24And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep.25And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.26And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.27But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him!
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons about trust and faith in the face of turmoil. The first reading from Amos conveys God's judgment on Israel, using vivid imagery to emphasize that events do not occur without purpose. Amos highlights the role of prophets in revealing God's plan, urging Israel to repentance despite past punishments. In the Gospel, Matthew depicts Jesus calming a storm, showcasing His divine authority and the disciples' journey from fear to faith.
Both readings are set against backdrops of societal and personal upheaval. Amos addressed a prosperous yet unjust Israel, calling for repentance. Matthew's narrative occurs early in Jesus's ministry, demonstrating His power and reinforcing the theme of trust. The common thread is the call to trust God, whether through prophetic warnings or divine intervention in nature.
In our lives, we face our own "storms," where fear and doubt can overwhelm us. Like the disciples, we may question God's presence, but Jesus's rebuke reminds us to have faith. The lesson is clear: trust in God's plan, even when the path is unclear. Let us turn to Him in times of turmoil, seeking calm and guidance, and remember that true faith lies in trusting His providence.