Daily Readings - Fri Sep 08 2023
First Reading - Romans 8.28-30 or Micah 5.2-5a
Romans
28And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.29For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the likeness of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brothers.30And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.
Micah
2"But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times. "3Therefore Israel will be abandoned until the time when she who is in labor gives birth and the rest of his brothers return to join the Israelites.4He will stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God. And they will live securely, for then his greatness will reach to the ends of the earth.5And he will be their peace. When the Assyrian invades our land and marches through our fortresses, we will raise against him seven shepherds, even eight leaders of men.
Matthew
18This is how the birth of Jesus Christ came about: His mother Mary was pledged to be married to Joseph, but before they came together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit.19Because Joseph her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly.20But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit.21She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins."22All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet:23"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"--which means, "God with us."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about God's providence and trust. The first reading from Romans 8:28-30 assures us that all things work together for good for those who love God. This passage is part of Paul's larger discussion on the relationship between suffering and glory, emphasizing that God's plan is always at work, even in uncertain times. The Gospel from Matthew 1:18-23 presents the story of Joseph, a righteous man faced with a perplexing situation. Joseph's trust in God's plan, despite initial confusion, exemplifies unwavering faith and obedience.
The readings are connected through the theme of trust in God's plan. In Romans, Paul reassures believers that God's plan is always for their good, even when circumstances seem challenging. In Matthew, Joseph's trust is evident as he accepts Mary's miraculous pregnancy, guided by an angel's message. Both readings highlight the importance of trusting God, even when His plan is unclear.
Applying this to daily life, we are reminded to trust God during uncertain times. Just as Joseph trusted despite confusion, we too can face life's challenges with faith. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's plan, knowing He works all things for our good. This trust brings peace and strength, guiding us through life's uncertainties.