Daily Readings - Tue Jun 20 2017
2 Corinthians
1And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches.2Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.3For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,4they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.5And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.6So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.7But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us--see that you also excel in this grace of giving.8I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.9For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
Matthew
43"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'44But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful lessons on generosity and love. The First Reading from 2 Corinthians highlights the Macedonian churches' extraordinary generosity amidst poverty and tribulation. Despite their hardships, they gave abundantly, setting an example of grace and simplicity. This passage is part of Paul's efforts to collect funds for the Jerusalem church, showcasing how faith can lead to selfless giving beyond one's means.
The Gospel from Matthew challenges us with Jesus' teachings on loving our enemies and striving for perfection. Jesus expands the traditional understanding of love, urging us to go beyond societal norms and embrace a higher moral standard. This is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus calls his followers to a life that reflects God's perfection through selfless love.
Both readings connect in their call to transcend human limitations through divine grace. The Corinthians' generosity and Jesus' command to love enemies illustrate that true Christian living involves giving beyond our capacity, whether financially or emotionally. This trust in God's grace enables us to act with kindness and forgiveness, even in challenging situations.
In our daily lives, we often face opportunities to give more than we think possible. Whether through charity, forgiveness, or kindness, we are called to trust in God's grace to empower us. The moral lesson here is that true love and generosity stem from God, urging us to imitate His perfection through selfless acts. As children of God, we are called to a higher standard, reflecting His love in all we do.