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Daily Readings - Sat Jul 26 2025

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

The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of legacy, gratitude, and the responsibility that comes with the gifts we receive. The first reading from Sirach praises the ancestors who lived virtuous lives, leaving behind a legacy of good deeds and a holy inheritance. It emphasizes the enduring impact of their righteousness, which continues through their descendants. The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to the spiritual realm, where Jesus highlights the blessedness of His disciples who have the privilege of seeing and hearing what many prophets and just people longed for but did not experience. The context of Sirach is rooted in wisdom literature, celebrating the enduring legacy of those who lived justly and passed on their faith. It underscores the importance of remembering and honoring those who have gone before us, whose good works continue to inspire and guide us. In contrast, Matthew's passage is set in the midst of Jesus' ministry, where He emphasizes the unique privilege of His disciples to receive the revelation of the Kingdom of God. This privilege carries with it the responsibility to live in a way that reflects the values of the Kingdom. These readings remind us to be grateful for the legacy we have inherited, both from our ancestors and from God. We are called to live in a way that honors this legacy, using the gifts we have been given to continue the work of justice, mercy, and faith. Let us strive to live virtuous lives, mindful of the impact our actions will have on future generations. May we be faithful stewards of the blessings we have received, and may our lives reflect the wisdom and love of God.