Daily Readings - Sat Mar 01 2025
Sirach
1God created man from the earth, and he made him according to his own image2And he returned him again to it, and he clothed him with virtue according to himself3He gave him the number and time of his days, and he gave him authority over all the things that are upon the earth4He placed the fear of him over all flesh, and he had dominion over wild beasts and flying things6He created within them the knowledge of the spirit. He filled their heart with understanding, and he showed them both good and evil7He set his eye upon their hearts, to reveal to them the greatness of his works8so that they might highly praise the name of sanctification, and give glory to his wonders, so that they might declare the greatness of his works10He established an eternal covenant with them, and he revealed to them his justice and judgments11And their eye saw the greatness of his honor, and their ears heard the honor of his voice, and he said to them: "Beware of all iniquity.12And he commanded each one concerning his neighbor13Their ways are always in his sight; they are not hidden from his eyes14Over each and every people, he has appointed a ruler15And Israel was made to be the manifest portion of God
Mark
13And they brought to him the little children, so that he might touch them. But the disciples admonished those who brought them14But when Jesus saw this, he took offense, and he said to them: "Allow the little ones to come to me, and do not prohibit them. For of such as these is the kingdom of God15Amen I say to you, whoever will not accept the kingdom of God like a little child, will not enter into it.16And embracing them, and laying his hands upon them, he blessed them
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the profound relationship between God and humanity, as well as the call to humility and trust in divine providence. In the first reading from Sirach, we are reminded of the dignity of human beings, created in the image and likeness of God. The author emphasizes that God has entrusted us with great gifts: understanding, the knowledge of good and evil, and the ability to enter into a covenant with Him. This passage also highlights the responsibility that comes with such gifts, urging us to avoid sin and live according to God’s justice. The focus is on the greatness of God’s works and the call to praise and honor Him.
In the Gospel, Mark presents a scene where Jesus is approached by parents seeking His blessing for their children. While the disciples try to prevent this, Jesus takes offense and insists that the children come to Him. He declares that the kingdom of God belongs to those who receive it with the humility and openness of a child. This teaching challenges us to let go of pride and self-reliance, embracing instead a posture of trust and simplicity. Jesus’ embrace and blessing of the children serve as a powerful reminder of God’s love for the vulnerable and the importance of humility in our spiritual lives.
These readings are deeply connected, as both emphasize the call to live in harmony with God’s will and to recognize our dependence on Him. Sirach reminds us of the dignity and responsibility that come with being created in God’s image, while the Gospel calls us to embrace humility and trust. In our daily lives, we are invited to approach God with the simplicity and openness of a child, recognizing that true greatness lies in our ability to receive His love and live according to His plan. May we, like the children in the Gospel, allow ourselves to be embraced by God’s mercy and guided by His wisdom.