Daily Catholic Mass Readings for February 25, 2021
First Reading: Esther 14.1, 3-5, 12-14
Psalm 138
1I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise;2I bow down toward your holy temple and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.3On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased.4All the kings of the earth shall give you thanks, O LORD, for they have heard the words of your mouth,5and they shall sing of the ways of the LORD, for great is the glory of the LORD.6For though the LORD is high, he regards the lowly, but the haughty he knows from afar.7Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.8The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands.
Gospel: Matthew 7.7-12
7"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.8For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.9Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone?10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent?11If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!12"So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Esther presents a moment of profound crisis and trust. Esther, facing imminent danger, turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His intervention. Her plea is not just for herself but for her people, demonstrating a selfless faith that trusts in God's providence. This story, rooted in the Jewish scriptures, highlights Esther's courage and reliance on God, setting an example for us when we face our own challenges.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' teachings on prayer and ethical living. Jesus assures us that God, our loving Father, will respond to our needs when we ask with faith. He uses the analogy of a father giving good gifts to his children to illustrate God's generosity. Jesus then extends this teaching to the golden rule, urging us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This principle, central to the Sermon on the Mount, calls us to live with compassion and kindness, reflecting God's love in our actions.
These readings connect through their emphasis on trust and ethical behavior. Esther's trust in God's deliverance is mirrored in Jesus' assurance of God's provision. Both challenge us to live out our faith in daily life. When facing difficulties, we can draw strength from Esther's example, trusting in God's plan. Similarly, in our interactions, we are called to embody the golden rule, treating others with the same love and respect we desire. This dual focus on faith and action reminds us that our relationship with God is not just about belief but also about how we live and treat others. Let us strive to trust God deeply and love our neighbors genuinely, reflecting His grace in all we do.