Daily Readings - Mon May 28 2018
1 Peter
3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,4To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,5Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.6Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:7That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:8Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:9Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
Mark
17And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?18And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.19Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.20And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.21Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.22And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.23And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!24And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!25It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.26And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?27And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound lessons that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from 1 Peter reminds us of the hope we have through the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It encourages us to rejoice even amidst trials, as these trials refine our faith, making it as precious as gold. This hope is not fleeting; it is secured in heaven, promising us an incorruptible inheritance. Peter's words are a comfort to early Christians facing persecution, urging them to remain steadfast in their faith.
The Gospel from Mark presents a man who, in pursuit of eternal life, is challenged by Jesus to let go of his wealth. Despite keeping the commandments, the man is unable to part with his possessions, highlighting the struggle between material attachment and spiritual devotion. Jesus' teachings emphasize that wealth can be a significant barrier to entering the kingdom of God, a truth that astonishes His disciples. Yet, Jesus offers hope by reminding them that while this may be impossible for humans, it is possible with God.
These readings relate by emphasizing trust in God's plan. Peter's hope through trials and Jesus' challenge to the wealthy man both call us to trust in God's power. In our daily lives, we face various trials and attachments that test our faith. The moral lesson is clear: faith requires us to trust in God, even when it means letting go of what is comfortable or secure. With God, all things are possible, and our trust in Him will lead us to true joy and salvation. Let us embrace this hope and trust, allowing our faith to guide us through life's challenges.