Daily Readings - Tue Jun 15 2021
2 Corinthians
1And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches.2Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity.3For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own,4they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints.5And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God's will.6So we urged Titus, since he had earlier made a beginning, to bring also to completion this act of grace on your part.7But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us--see that you also excel in this grace of giving.8I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others.9For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich.
Matthew
43"You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.'44But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.46If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that?47And if you greet only your brothers, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that?48Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are presented with powerful lessons on selflessness and love. The second reading from 2 Corinthians highlights the generosity of the Macedonian churches, who, despite their poverty and hardships, gave abundantly to support others. This act of selflessness was not just about material giving but a profound expression of their faith and commitment to the community. The Gospel from Matthew challenges us further, as Jesus teaches us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. He emphasizes that true love goes beyond reciprocation, urging us to emulate God’s universal love, which extends to all, regardless of merit.
The context of these readings reveals the transformative power of grace. The Macedonians, though impoverished, were rich in spirit, demonstrating that true wealth lies in generosity and trust in God. Jesus, in His teaching, shifts the focus from conventional notions of love to a radical, inclusive love that mirrors God’s perfection. Both readings call us to transcend our limitations and respond with grace, whether through material support or through the challenging act of loving those who may not love us in return.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are invited to reflect on how we can embody this selfless love and generosity. It might mean giving more of our time, talents, or resources to those in need, or it could involve choosing kindness in the face of hostility. The moral lesson here is clear: our actions should reflect God’s perfection, transforming us into agents of His grace. By embracing this call, we not only grow in holiness but also become beacons of hope and love in a world that often prioritizes self-interest. Let us strive to love as God loves, generously and without bounds, allowing His grace to flow through us and touch the lives of all we encounter.