Daily Readings - Fri Jul 14 2017
Genesis
1So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.2And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, "Jacob! Jacob!Here I am," he replied.3"I am God, the God of your father," he said. "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there.4I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes."5Then Jacob left Beersheba, and Israel's sons took their father Jacob and their children and their wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him.6They also took with them their livestock and the possessions they had acquired in Canaan, and Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt.7He took with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons and his daughters and granddaughters-all his offspring.28Now Jacob sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph to get directions to Goshen. When they arrived in the region of Goshen,29Joseph had his chariot made ready and went to Goshen to meet his father Israel. As soon as Joseph appeared before him, he threw his arms around his father and wept for a long time.30Israel said to Joseph, "Now I am ready to die, since I have seen for myself that you are still alive."
Matthew
16I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.17"Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues.18On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles.19But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,20for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.21"Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death.22All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.23When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on trust and divine providence. The first reading from Genesis recounts Jacob's journey to Egypt, guided by God's promise to make his descendants a great nation. Despite the uncertainty of leaving Canaan, Jacob trusts in God's assurance, exemplifying unwavering faith. The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus instructing His disciples on facing persecution. He warns them of trials but promises the Holy Spirit's guidance, emphasizing perseverance and trust in God's plan.
Both readings highlight the theme of trust amidst adversity. Jacob's story shows God's faithfulness in leading His people, while Jesus teaches His disciples to rely on divine assistance during hardships. This connection underscores the enduring message of trusting God, even when the path is uncertain.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace faith when challenges arise. Like Jacob and the disciples, we are reminded that following God's will may lead to difficulties, but His grace and guidance are ever-present. The moral lesson is clear: perseverance and trust in God's providence are essential. As we navigate life's uncertainties, may we find strength in knowing that God is with us, guiding us through every trial.