Daily Readings - Sat Jul 18 2020
Micah
1Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning's light they carry it out because it is in their power to do it.2They covet fields and seize them, and houses, and take them. They defraud a man of his home, a fellowman of his inheritance.3Therefore, the LORD says: "I am planning disaster against this people, from which you cannot save yourselves. You will no longer walk proudly, for it will be a time of calamity.4In that day men will ridicule you; they will taunt you with this mournful song: 'We are utterly ruined; my people's possession is divided up. He takes it from me! He assigns our fields to traitors.'"5Therefore you will have no one in the assembly of the LORD to divide the land by lot.
Matthew
14But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.15Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick,16warning them not to tell who he was.17This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:18"Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.19He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets.20A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory.21In his name the nations will put their hope."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two distinct yet interconnected themes: the condemnation of injustice and the fulfillment of prophecy through humble service. The first reading from Micah addresses a society steeped in greed and oppression, where the powerful seize land and homes, leaving devastation in their wake. Micah's prophecy warns of impending judgment, a time when arrogance will fall, and the people will recognize the error of their ways. This reading serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting justice and compassion.
In contrast, the Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus as the embodiment of humility and gentle strength. Despite the Pharisees' plots against him, Jesus continues his ministry of healing and teaching, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of a servant who brings hope without fanfare. Jesus's actions exemplify a different kind of power—one rooted in love and service rather than coercion or dominance. This passage invites us to reflect on how we exercise power and influence in our own lives.
Together, these readings challenge us to examine our values and actions. Micah's warning against exploitation and Jesus's example of selfless service call us to live with integrity, to stand up for justice, and to trust in God's plan. In a world often driven by greed and ambition, we are reminded that true greatness lies in humility and compassion. As we navigate our daily lives, may we strive to follow Jesus's example, bringing light and hope to those around us.