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Daily Readings - Thu Jul 26 2018

Sirach

Chapter 44

1Let us praise the men of glory, and our ancestors in their generation8They left behind a name for those who were born of them, so that their praises might be described10But these were men of mercy, whose pious deeds have not failed11Good things continue with their offspring12Their descendents are a holy inheritance, and their offspring stand firm in the covenants13And because of them, their sons remain even unto eternity. Their offspring and their glory will not be forsaken14Their bodies were buried in peace, and their name lives on, from generation to generation15Let the people declare their wisdom, and let the Church announce their praise

Matthew

Chapter 13

16But blessed are your eyes, because they see, and your ears, because they hear17Amen I say to you, certainly, that many of the prophets and the just desired to see what you see, and yet they did not see it, and to hear what you hear, and yet they did not hear it

Sermon

In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of legacy, gratitude, and the responsibility that comes with the blessings we receive. The first reading from Sirach encourages us to honor our ancestors who have passed down a legacy of faith and virtue. It reminds us that the good deeds of those who came before us continue to bear fruit, shaping the lives of future generations. This passage invites us to appreciate the wisdom and mercy of those who have gone before us, recognizing that their contributions remain alive in us. The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to the present moment. Jesus reminds us that we are blessed to see and hear what many prophets and righteous people longed to experience but could not. This is a call to gratitude for the gift of faith and the revelation of God’s truth in our lives. It also challenges us to be mindful of the responsibility that comes with this blessing. Just as our ancestors passed on their legacy, we too are called to live in a way that honors God and shares His love with others. As we reflect on these readings, let us consider how we can live out the legacy of faith in our own lives. May we cultivate gratitude for the blessings we have received and strive to pass on the wisdom and mercy of God to those around us. Let us not take for granted the gift of faith, but instead, let it transform us and inspire us to live virtuously, leaving behind a legacy that honors God and benefits future generations.