Daily Readings - Sat Jan 19 2019
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.14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.16Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Mark
13And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.14And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.15And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him.16And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?17When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter powerful messages about God's nature and Jesus' mission. The first reading from Hebrews describes the Word of God as a double-edged sword, piercing the soul and spirit, and emphasizes Jesus as a compassionate High Priest who understands our weaknesses. The Gospel from Mark illustrates Jesus' controversial act of calling Levi, a tax collector, and dining with sinners, leading to criticism from the Pharisees. Jesus responds by affirming his mission to call sinners, not the self-righteous.
The context of Hebrews is a letter to early Christians facing persecution, reassuring them of God's ever-present help and Jesus' empathy. Mark's passage highlights Jesus' unconventional ministry, engaging with those marginalized by society, which was controversial in a culture that valued purity.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on Jesus' understanding of human frailty and his mission to offer grace. The Word of God in Hebrews is powerful, discerning, and active, aligning with Jesus' actions in Mark as he brings mercy to those in need.
Applying this to daily life, we are reminded to embrace our need for God's mercy and extend compassion to others. Just as Jesus reached out to tax collectors and sinners, we should engage with those on the margins, offering love and understanding.
The moral lesson is clear: Jesus came for the sinners, not the self-righteous. We are all in need of God's grace, and our response should be humility and openness to His Word, allowing it to transform us. Let us follow Jesus' example, reaching out with love and compassion, trusting in His mercy to guide us.