Daily Readings - Fri Mar 14 2025
Ezekiel
21"But if a wicked man turns away from all the sins he has committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, he will surely live; he will not die.22None of the offenses he has committed will be remembered against him. Because of the righteous things he has done, he will live.23Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign LORD. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?24"But if a righteous man turns from his righteousness and commits sin and does the same detestable things the wicked man does, will he live? None of the righteous things he has done will be remembered. Because of the unfaithfulness he is guilty of and because of the sins he has committed, he will die.25"Yet you say, 'The way of the Lord is not just.' Hear, O house of Israel: Is my way unjust? Is it not your ways that are unjust?26If a righteous man turns from his righteousness and commits sin, he will die for it; because of the sin he has committed he will die.27But if a wicked man turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he will save his life.28Because he considers all the offenses he has committed and turns away from them, he will surely live; he will not die.
Matthew
20For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.21"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.'22But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca, 'is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.23"Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you,24leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift.25"Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still with him on the way, or he may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison.26I tell you the truth, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of personal responsibility and moral integrity. Ezekiel emphasizes that our actions shape our destiny, urging us to turn away from sin and embrace righteousness. He counters the belief that one suffers for another's sins, highlighting individual accountability. This message underscores God's justice, where each person's choices determine their fate.
In the Gospel, Matthew expands on this theme as Jesus teaches that true righteousness goes beyond outward actions. He deepens the commandment against murder to include anger and insults, stressing the need for reconciliation. Jesus illustrates this by advising us to mend relationships before worship and to resolve disputes promptly, highlighting the consequences of unresolved conflicts.
Both readings connect through their focus on personal responsibility and the depth of moral integrity required. Ezekiel's call to individual accountability aligns with Jesus' emphasis on heartfelt righteousness. They remind us that our choices have consequences and that we must actively seek reconciliation and live with integrity.
In daily life, this means recognizing the impact of our actions and attitudes, turning away from sin, and seeking forgiveness. We are called to reflect on our interactions, ensuring they are marked by love and respect. The moral lesson is clear: God's justice is fair, and our commitment to holiness and reconciliation is essential. Let us strive to live in accordance with these teachings, embracing the justice and mercy that define God's love.