Daily Readings - Sun Jun 25 2017

Second Reading - Romans 5.12-15

¹²Therefore, just as through one man sin entered into this world, and through sin, death; so also death was transferred to all men, to all who have sinned¹³For even before the law, sin was in the world, but sin was not imputed while the law did not exist¹⁴Yet death reigned from Adam until Moses, even in those who have not sinned, in the likeness of the transgression of Adam, who is a figure of him who was to come¹⁵But the gift is not entirely like the offense. For though by the offense of one, many died, yet much more so, by the grace of one man, Jesus Christ, has the grace and gift of God abounded to many

Gospel - Matthew 10.26-33

Matthew

Chapter 10

²⁶Therefore, do not fear them. For nothing is covered that shall not be revealed, nor hidden that shall not be known²⁷What I tell you in darkness, speak in the light. And what you hear whispered in the ear, preach above the rooftops²⁸And do not be afraid of those who kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul. But instead fear him who is able to destroy both soul and body in Hell²⁹Are not two sparrows sold for one small coin? And yet not one of them will fall to the ground without your Father³⁰For even the hairs of your head have all been numbered³¹Therefore, do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows³²Therefore, everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father, who is in heaven³³But whoever will have denied me before men, I also will deny before my Father, who is in heaven

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about sin, grace, and the courage to live our faith fearlessly. The Second Reading from Romans reminds us that through Adam, sin and death entered the world, but through Christ, God's grace abounds even more abundantly. This theological foundation underscores the transformative power of God's love. In the Gospel, Matthew shares Jesus' words of encouragement to His disciples, urging them not to fear persecution or death, for they are valued by God, who even knows the number of hairs on their heads. Jesus emphasizes that acknowledging Him before others will be reciprocated by the Father in heaven. The context of these readings is rooted in the early Christian experience. Paul, in Romans, contrasts Adam and Christ, highlighting the redemptive act of Jesus. This contrast serves as a theological underpinning for understanding the nature of sin and grace. In Matthew, Jesus prepares His disciples for the challenges they will face, encouraging them to trust in God's providence and care. Together, these readings bridge the theological and the practical, offering both a understanding of God's plan and the courage to live it out. Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are reminded to face challenges with faith, trusting in God's love and care. Just as the disciples were called to be bold, we too are called to live our faith openly, unafraid of what others may think or do. The moral lesson here is one of trust and courage—trusting in God's love and living as His children with confidence. Let us embrace this call, knowing we are valued and loved beyond measure, and let our lives reflect the grace we have received.