Daily Readings - Wed Aug 05 2020
Jeremiah
1"At that time," declares the LORD, "I will be the God of all the clans of Israel, and they will be my people."2This is what the LORD says: "The people who survive the sword will find favor in the desert; I will come to give rest to Israel."3The LORD appeared to us in the past, saying: "I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with loving-kindness.4I will build you up again and you will be rebuilt, O Virgin Israel. Again you will take up your tambourines and go out to dance with the joyful.5Again you will plant vineyards on the hills of Samaria; the farmers will plant them and enjoy their fruit.6There will be a day when watchmen cry out on the hills of Ephraim, 'Come, let us go up to Zion, to the LORD our God.'"7This is what the LORD says: "Sing with joy for Jacob; shout for the foremost of the nations. Make your praises heard, and say, 'O LORD, save your people, the remnant of Israel.'
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
In today's readings, we encounter profound expressions of God's love and mercy. The prophet Jeremiah brings a message of hope to Israel during their exile, promising restoration and joy. God's eternal love is highlighted, reassuring Israel that they will be rebuilt and rejoice once more. This passage emphasizes God's faithfulness and the hope of redemption, even in the darkest times.
The Gospel presents a Canaanite woman whose persistence and faith in Jesus lead to her daughter's healing. Initially, Jesus seems reluctant, but her unwavering faith moves Him to act, demonstrating that His mission extends beyond the Jews to all people. This story underscores the power of faith and the universality of God's love.
These readings remind us to trust in God's love and mercy, especially in challenging times. They call us to embrace God's love and share it with others, just as Jesus did. Let us be inspired to live with hope and faith, knowing God's love is always available to us and to all people.