Daily Readings - Sat Jun 14 2025
2 Corinthians
14For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:15And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.16Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more.17Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.18And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;19To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.20Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.21For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
Matthew
33Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:34But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne:35Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.36Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.37But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of transformation and authenticity through our faith. The first reading from 2 Corinthians 5:14-21 highlights the profound impact of Christ's death and resurrection. Paul emphasizes that we are no longer the same, for we have been reconciled to God through Christ. This reconciliation transforms us into new creations, ambassadors of God's love and reconciliation. Our lives should now reflect this newness, living not for ourselves but for Christ, who has made us righteous through His sacrifice.
In the Gospel, Matthew 5:33-37, Jesus teaches us about the importance of honesty and simplicity in our speech. He instructs us to avoid swearing oaths and instead let our words be truthful and straightforward. This teaching is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus interprets the Law in a way that calls for a deeper integrity. Our "Yes" should mean "Yes," and our "No" should mean "No," reflecting the authenticity of our character.
These readings connect in their call to live out our faith authentically. In Corinthians, we are ambassadors of reconciliation, while in Matthew, we are called to truthful living. Together, they remind us that our faith should permeate every aspect of our lives, including our interactions with others. Practically, this means avoiding deceit, keeping our promises, and ensuring our words and actions align with our beliefs.
The moral lesson here is one of integrity and authenticity. As new creations in Christ, we are called to live in a way that reflects God's truth and love. Our transformed lives should be evident in how we speak and act, serving as a testament to the reconciliation we have through Christ. Let us strive to live authentically, embodying the truth and love of God in all we do.