Daily Catholic Mass Readings for July 26, 2018
First Reading: Sirach 44.1, 8, 10-15
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Psalm 132
1A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions:2How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob;3Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed;4I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,5Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.6Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.7We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.8Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.9Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.10For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.11The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.12If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore.13For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.14This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.15I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread.16I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.17There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed.18His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish.
Gospel: Matthew 13.16-17
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of legacy, gratitude, and the responsibility that comes with the blessings we receive. The first reading from Sirach encourages us to honor our ancestors who have passed down a legacy of faith and virtue. It reminds us that the good deeds of those who came before us continue to bear fruit, shaping the lives of future generations. This passage invites us to appreciate the wisdom and mercy of those who have gone before us, recognizing that their contributions remain alive in us.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to the present moment. Jesus reminds us that we are blessed to see and hear what many prophets and righteous people longed to experience but could not. This is a call to gratitude for the gift of faith and the revelation of God’s truth in our lives. It also challenges us to be mindful of the responsibility that comes with this blessing. Just as our ancestors passed on their legacy, we too are called to live in a way that honors God and shares His love with others.
As we reflect on these readings, let us consider how we can live out the legacy of faith in our own lives. May we cultivate gratitude for the blessings we have received and strive to pass on the wisdom and mercy of God to those around us. Let us not take for granted the gift of faith, but instead, let it transform us and inspire us to live virtuously, leaving behind a legacy that honors God and benefits future generations.