First Reading

Reading from the book of Deuteronomy 

Deuteronomy 26:16-19

At that time, Moses said to the people: «The LORD, your God, commands you today to observe these statutes and decrees; be careful, then, to observe them with all your heart and with all your soul.

Today the LORD has declared that you are his people, his own treasured possession, as he promised you, but only if you follow his ways, keep his statutes, commandments, and decrees, and heed his voice.

Today the LORD has declared that you are his people, his own treasured possession, as he promised you, but only if you keep his commandments. For this reason, he will raise you high in praise and renown and glory above all nations he has made, and you will be a people sacred to the LORD, your God, as he promised.»

Gospel

Reading from the holy Gospel according to Saint Matthew 

Matthew 5:43-48

At that time, Jesus said to his disciples: «You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your heavenly Father, for he makes his sun rise on the bad and the good, and causes rain to fall on the just and the unjust.

For if you love those who love you, what recompense will you have? Do not the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet your brothers only, what is unusual about that? Do not the pagans do the same? So be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.»