Daily Readings - Wed Mar 26 2025
Deuteronomy
1Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers giveth you.5Behold, I have taught you statutes and judgments, even as the LORD my God commanded me, that ye should do so in the land whither ye go to possess it.6Keep therefore and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.7For what nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon him for?8And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgments so righteous as all this law, which I set before you this day?9Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons;
Matthew
17Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.18For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.19Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
Sermon
The readings today remind us of the enduring importance of God’s law and its role in our lives. In Deuteronomy, Moses exhorts the Israelites to listen to and observe the precepts and judgments of the Lord, emphasizing that these teachings are the wisdom and understanding that set them apart as a chosen people. He urges them to teach these laws to their children and grandchildren, ensuring that the faith is passed down through generations. This passage underscores the idea that living according to God’s law is not only about obedience but also about living a life that reflects His love and care for us.
In the Gospel, Jesus affirms the importance of the law, declaring that He has not come to abolish it but to fulfill it. He emphasizes that every detail of the law remains significant until all is accomplished. Jesus warns that loosening even the smallest commandment undermines the integrity of the law and diminishes one’s place in the kingdom of heaven. Conversely, those who live by and teach the commandments will be considered great. This passage highlights the continuity of God’s plan and the call to live with integrity, respecting the fullness of His teachings.
Together, these readings invite us to reflect on our relationship with God’s law. They remind us that the law is not a burden but a gift, a guide for living a life that honors God and reflects His love. In our daily lives, we are called to embrace the teachings of Scripture, not just as rules to follow, but as a way of life that shapes our choices, our relationships, and our witness to the world. Let us strive to live with fidelity to God’s commandments, teaching them by our words and actions, and trusting that in doing so, we will find true wisdom and greatness in His eyes.