The Daily Office for September 16, 2012
Scripture Readings
Old Testament
Psalm
New Testament
Gospel
Reflection
In communicating the depth of His message in today's Gospel reading, Jesus used a series of contrasts between the outward demand of the law and the inner attitude of the heart desired by God. In this series of contrasts we see the depth and dynamic of the teaching of Jesus Christ, the great Master Teacher. Here we discover the practical application of genuine Christian character to true spiritual living. Here we see the Gospel in action. Here is piety on the pavement of life. The Christian may live above the demands of the law and the temptations of the world because he or she has an inner depth of character which is the product of the divine nature within that person.
Collect for the Day
God, who in generous mercy sent the Holy Spirit upon your Church in the burning fire of your love: grant that your people may be fervent in the fellowship of the gospel that, always abiding in you, they may be found steadfast in faith and active in service; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.