Daily Readings - Thu Jun 16 2022
Matthew
7And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words.8Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.9"This, then, is how you should pray: "'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name,10your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.11Give us today our daily bread.12Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors.13And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. '14For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.15But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the power of prayer and the importance of living with sincerity and forgiveness. The first reading from Sirach highlights the prophet Elijah, whose trust in God led to remarkable miracles and a deep impact on his people. Elijah's story teaches us that true power comes from faith and a steadfast commitment to God's will. The Gospel from Matthew presents Jesus teaching the disciples the Lord's Prayer, emphasizing that prayer should be heartfelt and not just a recitation of words. Jesus underscores the essential role of forgiveness in our prayers, reminding us that our relationship with God is deeply intertwined with how we relate to others.
Both readings remind us that prayer is not about grand gestures or elaborate words but about sincerity and trust. Elijah's miracles were born out of his deep connection with God, while Jesus teaches that prayer should reflect our true selves and our willingness to forgive. The context of these readings shows us that prayer is a personal and communal act that shapes who we are and how we live. Elijah's faith and Jesus' teachings call us to examine our own prayer lives and ensure they are rooted in authenticity and compassion.
Applying these lessons to our daily lives, we are encouraged to approach prayer with honesty and simplicity. Let us not get caught up in the length or complexity of our prayers but instead focus on speaking from our hearts. Forgiveness, as Jesus emphasizes, is central to our spiritual well-being. As we navigate our relationships and challenges, may we remember to forgive others as we seek forgiveness from God. In doing so, we embody the spirit of Elijah's faith and the teachings of Jesus, living as people of prayer and mercy. Let us strive to make prayer a genuine expression of our love for God and our commitment to living as His children.