Daily Readings - Fri Jul 11 2025
Genesis
1So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.2And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, "Jacob! Jacob!Here I am," he replied.3"I am God, the God of your father," he said. "Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there.4I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again. And Joseph's own hand will close your eyes."5Then Jacob left Beersheba, and Israel's sons took their father Jacob and their children and their wives in the carts that Pharaoh had sent to transport him.6They also took with them their livestock and the possessions they had acquired in Canaan, and Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt.7He took with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons and his daughters and granddaughters-all his offspring.28Now Jacob sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph to get directions to Goshen. When they arrived in the region of Goshen,29Joseph had his chariot made ready and went to Goshen to meet his father Israel. As soon as Joseph appeared before him, he threw his arms around his father and wept for a long time.30Israel said to Joseph, "Now I am ready to die, since I have seen for myself that you are still alive."
Matthew
16I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves.17"Be on your guard against men; they will hand you over to the local councils and flog you in their synagogues.18On my account you will be brought before governors and kings as witnesses to them and to the Gentiles.19But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,20for it will not be you speaking, but the Spirit of your Father speaking through you.21"Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death.22All men will hate you because of me, but he who stands firm to the end will be saved.23When you are persecuted in one place, flee to another. I tell you the truth, you will not finish going through the cities of Israel before the Son of Man comes.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on trust and perseverance in the face of uncertainty and adversity. The first reading from Genesis recounts Jacob's journey to Egypt, guided by God's promise to make him a great nation. Despite the unknowns, Jacob trusts in God's providence, leading to a joyful reunion with his son Joseph. This story underscores the theme of faith in divine plans, even when the path is unclear.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' discourse to his disciples, where he prepares them for the challenges of spreading his message. Jesus warns of persecution and betrayal, yet offers reassurance that the Spirit will guide them. He emphasizes perseverance, advising them to flee when necessary but trusting in God's ultimate deliverance. This passage highlights the importance of steadfast faith amidst hardship.
Both readings encourage us to trust in God's presence and plan. Like Jacob, we may face uncertain journeys, but God's promises are ever-present. Like the disciples, we may encounter adversity, yet our faith should remain unshaken. In our daily lives, whether facing personal struggles or societal challenges, we are called to trust in God's guidance and providence. Let us embrace this trust, knowing that perseverance in faith will lead us to salvation.