Daily Readings - Sun Feb 16 2020
1 Corinthians
6We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing.7No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began.8None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.9However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"--10but God has revealed it to us by his Spirit.
Matthew
17"Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.20For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.21"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.'22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca, 'is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.23"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you,24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.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.33"Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.'34But I tell you, Do not swear at all: either by heaven, for it is God's throne;37Simply let your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' and your 'No,No'; anything beyond this comes from the evil one.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the nature of God’s wisdom, the importance of moral choices, and the call to live a life of integrity and sincerity. In the first reading from Sirach, we are reminded that God has set before us the choices of life and death, good and evil. The author emphasizes that our choices have consequences and that fidelity to God’s commandments is essential for living a virtuous life. This wisdom is not just about external actions but about the disposition of our hearts.
In the second reading from Corinthians, St. Paul speaks of the hidden wisdom of God, which surpasses human understanding. This wisdom is revealed through the Spirit and is rooted in the mystery of God’s plan for our salvation. Paul contrasts this divine wisdom with the fleeting wisdom of the world, which is destined to pass away. The reading encourages us to seek a deeper understanding of God’s plan and to trust in His providence.
In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us about the fulfillment of the law and the importance of living a life of radical righteousness. He goes beyond the external observance of the law and calls us to examine our hearts. Jesus warns against anger, lust, and false oaths, emphasizing that true righteousness must transform our inner lives. He calls us to reconciliation, sincerity, and a commitment to living according to the spirit of the law rather than just its letter.
These readings remind us that our faith is not just about rules or external practices but about a profound transformation of the heart. God’s wisdom calls us to make choices that reflect His love and justice, even when it is challenging. As we go about our daily lives, let us strive to live with integrity, seeking to align our actions and intentions with God’s will. May we embrace the wisdom of God, which reveals the depths of His love and mercy, and may we allow that wisdom to guide us in all we do.