Daily Readings - Sun Aug 20 2017
Romans
13I am talking to you Gentiles. Inasmuch as I am the apostle to the Gentiles, I make much of my ministry14in the hope that I may somehow arouse my own people to envy and save some of them.15For if their rejection is the reconciliation of the world, what will their acceptance be but life from the dead?29for God's gifts and his call are irrevocable.30Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience,31so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now receive mercy as a result of God's mercy to you.32For God has bound all men over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.
Matthew
21Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon.22A Canaanite woman from that vicinity came to him, crying out, "Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is suffering terribly from demon-possession."23Jesus did not answer a word. So his disciples came to him and urged him, "Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us."24He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of Israel."25The woman came and knelt before him. "Lord, help me!" she said.26He replied, "It is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to their dogs."27"Yes, Lord," she said, "but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table."28Then Jesus answered, "Woman, you have great faith! Your request is granted." And her daughter was healed from that very hour.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the universal nature of God's mercy and the power of persistent faith. In Romans, Paul addresses the Gentiles, emphasizing that God's gifts are irrevocable and that His mercy extends beyond the Jews to all people. He explains that the Gentiles' inclusion in God's plan is a result of the Jews' unbelief, yet both are called to receive God's mercy. This theological discussion underscores the idea that God's plan is inclusive, embracing all humanity.
In the Gospel, Matthew recounts the story of a Canaanite woman who approaches Jesus for her daughter's healing. Initially, Jesus seems reluctant, focusing on his mission to the lost sheep of Israel. However, the woman's persistence and faith move Jesus to act, demonstrating that His mercy is not confined to one group. This narrative illustrates the expansion of God's love beyond cultural and religious boundaries, highlighting the importance of faith and perseverance.
These readings remind us that God's love knows no bounds. They encourage us to embrace diversity and inclusion, recognizing that everyone is part of God's plan. Like the Canaanite woman, we should approach life with persistent faith, trusting in God's universal mercy. Let us reflect on our own inclusivity and openness to others, inspired by the lessons of today's readings.