Daily Readings - Wed Feb 01 2023
Hebrews
4In your struggle against sin you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood.5And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? "My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.6For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives."7It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons. For what son is there whom his father does not discipline?11For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.12Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees,13and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed.14Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord.15See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled;
Mark
1He went away from there and came to his hometown, and his disciples followed him.2And on the Sabbath he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished, saying, "Where did this man get these things? What is the wisdom given to him? How are such mighty works done by his hands?3Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon? And are not his sisters here with us?" And they took offense at him.4And Jesus said to them, "A prophet is not without honor, except in his hometown and among his relatives and in his own household."5And he could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them.6And he marveled because of their unbelief.And he went about among the villages teaching.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of faith, humility, and the challenges of living a life rooted in God’s will. The first reading from Hebrews reminds us that discipline and perseverance are essential for our spiritual growth. The author encourages us to view life’s struggles as opportunities for purification and holiness, trusting that God’s correction is a sign of His love. This passage calls us to embrace the journey of sanctification, even when it is difficult, for it is through such trials that we are shaped into the people God intends us to be.
The Gospel from Mark presents a striking contrast. Jesus, who had been performing miracles and teaching with authority, is rejected in His own hometown. The people’s familiarity with Him breeds contempt, and their unbelief limits His ability to work miracles among them. This passage challenges us to examine our own hearts. Do we, like the people of Nazareth, allow our preconceptions or pride to hinder our faith? Jesus’ words, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own country,” remind us that even those closest to us may fail to see the truth. This invites us to reflect on how we receive God’s message in our lives and whether we allow it to transform us.
These readings are deeply connected. Both call us to humility and trust in God’s plan. The Hebrews passage encourages us to endure trials with faith, knowing they are part of God’s loving plan. The Gospel reminds us that faith is not about what we already know or think we understand but about surrendering to God’s will. In our daily lives, let us strive to embrace both the challenges and the graces God offers. May we not be limited by our own unbelief or the opinions of others but instead allow God to work in us and through us. As we pursue holiness, let us remember that true wisdom and power come not from human understanding but from a humble and open heart.