Daily Readings - Fri Jun 16 2017
2 Corinthians
7But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.8We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair;9persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.10We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body.11For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus' sake, so that his life may be revealed in our mortal body.12So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.13It is written: "I believed; therefore I have spoken." With that same spirit of faith we also believe and therefore speak,14because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus from the dead will also raise us with Jesus and present us with you in his presence.15All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God.
Matthew
27"You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.'28But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.29If your right eye causes you to sin, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.30And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to go into hell.31"It has been said, 'Anyone who divorces his wife must give her a certificate of divorce.'32But I tell you that anyone who divorces his wife, except for marital unfaithfulness, causes her to become an adulteress, and anyone who marries the divorced woman commits adultery.
Sermon
In today's readings, we reflect on two profound teachings from Scripture that guide us in our Christian journey. The first reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our human frailty is where God's power shines through. Paul emphasizes enduring trials with faith, trusting that our sufferings allow Christ's life to manifest in us. This passage is part of his discussion on ministry, highlighting the transformative power of faith amidst adversity.
The Gospel from Matthew challenges us to consider the depth of God's law. Jesus expands the commandment against adultery to include the intentions of our hearts, urging us to address sin radically, even if it means sacrificing our desires. This teaching from the Sermon on the Mount calls us to purity beyond outward actions, focusing on the integrity of our thoughts and intentions.
Both readings converge on the theme of internal transformation and reliance on God's power. They remind us that our response to trials and sin is not just about outward actions but about the state of our hearts. In daily life, this means facing challenges with faith and examining our thoughts and intentions to live with purity. Let us trust in God's power through trials and strive for a life of integrity, allowing His light to shine through our frailty.