Daily Catholic Mass Readings for January 13, 2025
First Reading: Hebrews 1.1-6
1Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets,2but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.3He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power. After making purification for sins, he sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high,4having become as much superior to angels as the name he has inherited is more excellent than theirs.5For to which of the angels did God ever say, "You are my Son, today I have begotten you"?Or again, "I will be to him a father, and he shall be to me a son"?6And again, when he brings the firstborn into the world, he says, "Let all God's angels worship him."
Psalm 97
1The LORD reigns, let the earth rejoice; let the many coastlands be glad!2Clouds and thick darkness are all around him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.3Fire goes before him and burns up his adversaries all around.4His lightnings light up the world; the earth sees and trembles.5The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.6The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all the peoples see his glory.7All worshipers of images are put to shame, who make their boast in worthless idols; worship him, all you gods!8Zion hears and is glad, and the daughters of Judah rejoice, because of your judgments, O LORD.9For you, O LORD, are most high over all the earth; you are exalted far above all gods.10O you who love the LORD, hate evil! He preserves the lives of his saints; he delivers them from the hand of the wicked.11Light is sown for the righteous, and joy for the upright in heart.12Rejoice in the LORD, O you righteous, and give thanks to his holy name!
Gospel: Mark 1.14-20
14Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God,15and saying, "The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."16Passing alongside the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew the brother of Simon casting a net into the sea, for they were fishermen.17And Jesus said to them, "Follow me, and I will make you become fishers of men."18And immediately they left their nets and followed him.19And going on a little farther, he saw James the son of Zebedee and John his brother, who were in their boat mending the nets.20And immediately he called them, and they left their father Zebedee in the boat with the hired servants and followed him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound moments that illuminate the essence of Jesus' mission and our response to it. The first reading from Hebrews emphasizes God's ultimate revelation through Jesus, the Son, who surpasses the prophets and angels. This passage underscores Jesus' role in creation and redemption, highlighting His divine authority. The Gospel from Mark depicts the commencement of Jesus' ministry, where He calls the first disciples with urgency, inviting them to leave their familiar lives and follow Him. This call is not just a historical event but a timeless invitation to each of us.
The context of these readings is crucial. Hebrews was likely written for Jewish Christians, comparing Jesus to the prophets and angels to assert His superiority. Mark's narrative begins with Jesus' active ministry after John the Baptist's imprisonment, showcasing His immediate impact and the disciples' swift response. Together, these passages emphasize Jesus' central role as God's ultimate revelation and the call to discipleship that requires bold action.
In our daily lives, these readings challenge us to reflect on our response to Jesus' call. Like the disciples, we are invited to step out of our comfort zones and trust in God's plan. This might mean embracing new opportunities or letting go of fears. The moral lesson here is the importance of recognizing Jesus' authority and being obedient to His call. It calls for faith, trust, and action, urging us to be open to God's invitations and to live with purpose and urgency, just as the first disciples did.