Daily Readings - Fri Aug 09 2024
Nahum
15Look, there on the mountains, the feet of one who brings good news, who proclaims peace! Celebrate your festivals, O Judah, and fulfill your vows. No more will the wicked invade you; they will be completely destroyed.
2The LORD will restore the splendor of Jacob like the splendor of Israel, though destroyers have laid them waste and have ruined their vines.
1Woe to the city of blood, full of lies, full of plunder, never without victims!2The crack of whips, the clatter of wheels, galloping horses and jolting chariots!3Charging cavalry, flashing swords and glittering spears! Many casualties, piles of dead, bodies without number, people stumbling over the corpses-6I will pelt you with filth, I will treat you with contempt and make you a spectacle.7All who see you will flee from you and say, 'Nineveh is in ruins-who will mourn for her?' Where can I find anyone to comfort you?"
Matthew
24Then Jesus said to his disciples, "If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.25For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.26What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul? Or what can a man give in exchange for his soul?27For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what he has done.28I tell you the truth, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom."
Sermon
Today’s readings present a powerful juxtaposition of judgment and redemption, urging us to reflect on our choices and commitments. The first reading from Nahum depicts the downfall of Nineveh, a city consumed by bloodshed, lies, and violence. Nahum’s prophecy underscores the consequences of turning away from God, highlighting the desolation and scattering of a people who have embraced sin. This serves as a stark reminder of the repercussions of neglecting divine callings and the importance of moral accountability.
In contrast, the Gospel reading from Matthew offers a call to discipleship, as Jesus invites His followers to embrace self-denial and take up their cross. He emphasizes that true life is found in losing oneself for His sake, cautioning against prioritizing worldly gains over spiritual wealth. This passage is a classic call to prioritize faith, urging believers to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary comforts.
These readings together invite us to consider our own path. Nahum’s prophecy warns against the consequences of sin, while Matthew’s call to discipleship offers a transformative alternative. As we navigate our daily lives, we are reminded to reflect on our choices and commitments. Following Christ requires sacrifice, yet it promises a life of purpose and fulfillment. Let us commit to living with integrity, prioritizing spiritual values, and embracing the challenges of discipleship with hope and courage.