Daily Readings - Fri Feb 01 2019
Hebrews
32But call to mind the former days, in which, after being enlightened, you endured a great struggle of afflictions33And certainly, in one way, by insults and tribulations, you were made a spectacle, but in another way, you became the companions of those who were the object of such behavior34For you even had compassion on those who were imprisoned, and you accepted with gladness being deprived of your goods, knowing that you have a better and more lasting substance35And so, do not lose your confidence, which has a great reward36For it is necessary for you to be patient, so that, by doing the will of God, you may receive the promise37"For, in a little while, and somewhat longer, he who is to come will return, and he will not delay38For my just man lives by faith. But if he were to draw himself back, he would not please my soul.39So then, we are not sons who are drawn away to perdition, but we are sons of faith toward the securing of the soul
Mark
26And he said: "The kingdom of God is like this: it is as if a man were to cast seed on the land27And he sleeps and he arises, night and day. And the seed germinates and grows, though he does not know it28For the earth bears fruit readily: first the plant, then the ear, next the full grain in the ear29And when the fruit has been produced, immediately he sends out the sickle, because the harvest has arrived.30And he said: "To what should we compare the kingdom of God? Or to what parable should we compare it31It is like a grain of mustard seed which, when it has been sown in the earth, is less than all the seeds which are in the earth32And when it is sown, it grows up and becomes greater than all the plants, and it produces great branches, so much so that the birds of the air are able to live under its shadow.33And with many such parables he spoke the word to them, as much as they were able to hear34But he did not speak to them without a parable. Yet separately, he explained all things to his disciples
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore themes of faith, trust, and the nature of God's Kingdom. The epistle from Hebrews reminds us of the enduring power of faith amidst trials, encouraging us to remain steadfast and patient, trusting in God's promises. The Gospel from Mark presents two parables: the growing seed and the mustard seed, illustrating the Kingdom of God's growth from small beginnings to a flourishing reality.
Both readings invite us to reflect on the essence of faith and trust in God's plan. Hebrews emphasizes perseverance through hardships, highlighting that true faith is not about drawing back but securing our souls through trust. Mark's parables show that the Kingdom of God, though it may start small and grow unnoticed, ultimately becomes a refuge and home for many. This mirrors how our faith, though it may begin humbly, can grow into something extraordinary.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to embrace patience and trust in God's timing. Just as the seed grows without our full understanding, our faith can develop in ways we may not see immediately. Let us remain steadfast, trusting that God's promises will unfold, and nurture our faith so it may grow into a shelter of grace and love for others.