Daily Readings - Sun Oct 14 2018
Hebrews
12For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.13Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.
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.28Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.29And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's,30But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the true nature of wealth and wisdom. The first reading from the Book of Wisdom reminds us that true wisdom surpasses all material riches. It speaks of wisdom as a divine gift that brings light, understanding, and countless blessings. The author describes wisdom as more precious than gold or silver, emphasizing that all good things come through her. This passage calls us to value spiritual wealth over earthly treasures.
The second reading from the Letter to the Hebrews shifts our focus to the power of God’s Word. It describes the Word as living and active, capable of discerning the deepest thoughts and intentions of the heart. This passage reminds us that nothing is hidden from God’s sight. Just as wisdom is a divine gift, so too is the Word of God a powerful tool for discernment and transformation. Together, these readings encourage us to seek spiritual riches and to trust in God’s insight into our lives.
In the Gospel, Mark presents us with the story of the rich young man who asks Jesus how to attain eternal life. Jesus challenges him to let go of his possessions and follow Him, emphasizing that wealth can be an obstacle to entering the kingdom of God. This encounter reminds us that true discipleship requires detachment from material goods and a willingness to trust in God’s providence. The moral lesson here is clear: our hearts must not be bound by earthly riches, for it is only through surrender and faith that we can fully follow Christ. Let us reflect on our own attachments and ask ourselves: what is it that we hold onto too tightly? May we, like the disciples, place our trust in God, knowing that with Him, all things are possible.