Daily Readings - Sat Jul 20 2024
Micah
1Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning's light they carry it out because it is in their power to do it.2They covet fields and seize them, and houses, and take them. They defraud a man of his home, a fellowman of his inheritance.3Therefore, the LORD says: "I am planning disaster against this people, from which you cannot save yourselves. You will no longer walk proudly, for it will be a time of calamity.4In that day men will ridicule you; they will taunt you with this mournful song: 'We are utterly ruined; my people's possession is divided up. He takes it from me! He assigns our fields to traitors.'"5Therefore you will have no one in the assembly of the LORD to divide the land by lot.
Matthew
14But the Pharisees went out and plotted how they might kill Jesus.15Aware of this, Jesus withdrew from that place. Many followed him, and he healed all their sick,16warning them not to tell who he was.17This was to fulfill what was spoken through the prophet Isaiah:18"Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him, and he will proclaim justice to the nations.19He will not quarrel or cry out; no one will hear his voice in the streets.20A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory.21In his name the nations will put their hope."
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of justice and compassion. In Micah, we hear a prophetic warning against those who engage in oppression and injustice. The prophet condemns the powerful who exploit the vulnerable, stealing their land and homes. He warns that such actions will lead to ruin, as God will not tolerate injustice forever. This passage calls us to recognize the importance of standing up for what is right and protecting the weak.
In the Gospel, we see Jesus embodying a different approach to justice. Despite the Pharisees plotting against Him, Jesus chooses not to confront them directly. Instead, He continues His healing ministry, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of a gentle servant who brings hope to all. Jesus' approach is one of compassion and non-violence, showing that true justice is not about power but about care for the marginalized. His example teaches us that justice should be tempered with mercy and humility.
These readings challenge us to live justly and compassionately. Like Micah, we must stand against oppression and arrogance. Like Jesus, we must approach justice with gentleness and care for the weak. In our daily lives, let us strive to follow Jesus' example, working for justice in a way that reflects His love and humility. May we be instruments of God's peace and hope in a world that often prioritizes power over people.