In his writing to the fledgling Church in Rome, Paul spends a great deal of time detailing a logical argument that not only establishes Christianity as the ultimate end of Judaism, but demonstrates that Christ's redemptive sacrifice was meant for all people and not just the Jews alone. He further argues that people can gain that redemption through their faith whether they strictly adhere to the Law of Moses or not as all people fall under the shadow of sin whether they follow the Law or not.
This is where today's Second Reading comes in. It justifies the concept of Original Sin, pointing out that people sinned and died due to sin well before Moses ever gave the Hebrews the Law. However, Paul uses this as a basis for celebration--for if sin can come from just one normal human being, then the redemption can come from just one man--more so if that man is also God as Jesus is.
In this, Paul's letter carries the same message that started the homily today, "Be not afraid." Our pastor noted that Jesus talks about not needing to fear more than any other topic in His teachings. Too often, we hold onto our fears (of our health and futures and those of our family and friends) and allow them to control us. These fears often keep us from our reaching our true potential. In them is the fear that we are not worthy (of love, joy, or blessings). Jesus' sacrifice proves that fear to be baseless.