Daily Readings - Tue Aug 10 2021
2 Corinthians
6Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.7Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.8And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.9As it is written: "He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor; his righteousness endures forever."10Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.
John
24I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.25The man who loves his life will lose it, while the man who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life.26Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the transformative power of generosity and self-giving love. The Second Reading from 2 Corinthians reminds us that our generosity is not just about what we give, but how we give. Paul encourages us to give cheerfully, knowing that God provides abundantly so that we can abound in good works. This passage is part of Paul’s exhortation to the Corinthians to contribute generously to the collection for the Jerusalem church, emphasizing trust in God’s providence and the joy of giving.
The Gospel from John presents Jesus teaching His disciples about the necessity of self-sacrifice. Using the metaphor of the grain of wheat, Jesus explains that true life comes through dying to oneself. This passage is part of Jesus’ farewell discourse, where He prepares His disciples for His departure and calls them to follow His example of service and love. Both readings converge on the theme of surrender and generosity, whether it be material resources or one’s very life.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to examine how we give—whether it is with hesitation or with openness of heart. Jesus’ words remind us that true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of our own desires for the sake of others. As we strive to follow Christ, may we embrace the grace of generosity, trusting that God will multiply our efforts and bring forth abundant fruit. Let us pray for the courage to give freely, knowing that in surrendering our lives to God, we find true life and eternal reward.