Daily Readings - Thu Sep 15 2022

⁷It is Christ who, in the days of his flesh, with a strong cry and tears, offered prayers and supplications to the One who was able to save him from death, and who was heard because of his reverence⁸And although, certainly, he is the Son of God, he learned obedience by the things that he suffered⁹And having reached his consummation, he was made, for all who are obedient to him, the cause of eternal salvation

Gospel - Luke 2.33-35 or John 19.25-27

Luke

Chapter 2

³³And his father and mother were wondering over these things, which were spoken about him³⁴And Simeon blessed them, and he said to his mother Mary: "Behold, this one has been set for the ruin and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and as a sign which will be contradicted³⁵And a sword will pass through your own soul, so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.

John

Chapter 19

²⁵And standing beside the cross of Jesus were his mother, and his mother’s sister, and Mary of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene²⁶Therefore, when Jesus had seen his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing near, he said to his mother, "Woman, behold your son.²⁷Next, he said to the disciple, "Behold your mother." And from that hour, the disciple accepted her as his own

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter profound reflections on the nature of Christ's mission and the faith of those who follow Him. The passage from Hebrews highlights Jesus' humanity and divinity, emphasizing His obedience and suffering, which lead to eternal salvation. The Gospel from Luke presents Simeon's prophecy at the Presentation of Jesus, foretelling the impact of Jesus' life and the sorrow it will bring to Mary, while also revealing the deeper thoughts of those who encounter Him. These readings are set in the context of Jesus' life and mission. Hebrews underscores His role as the High Priest, who, through His suffering, provides salvation. Luke's scene in the Temple marks an early moment in Jesus' life, where Simeon's words hint at the redemption and contradiction Jesus will face. Together, they illustrate the duality of Jesus' role: as both the source of salvation and a figure who challenges the status quo. In our daily lives, these readings invite us to embrace obedience and trust in God's plan, even amidst challenges. Like Mary, we are called to steadfast faith, trusting that God's will, though sometimes difficult, leads to deeper revelation and understanding. As followers of Christ, we are reminded that our faith may lead us through trials, but it is in these moments that our hearts' true intentions are revealed, guiding us toward a more authentic relationship with God.