Daily Readings - Thu Jan 31 2019
Hebrews
19Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,20By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;21And having an high priest over the house of God;22Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.23Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)24And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:25Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Mark
21And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to be set on a candlestick?22For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.23If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.24And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.25For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that hath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.
Sermon
In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of faith, integrity, and the consequences of our actions. The first reading from Hebrews encourages believers to approach God with a true heart, trusting in the sacrifice of Christ, which opens the way to the Holy of Holies. This passage, written to early Christians facing persecution, urges them to remain steadfast in their faith and to support one another in their spiritual journey. The second reading from Mark presents Jesus teaching about the inevitability of revelation and the importance of mindful judgment. Using the parable of the lamp, Jesus emphasizes that our actions and intentions will ultimately be revealed, and we will be measured by the same standard we use for others.
Both readings connect through their emphasis on living authentically and with integrity. Hebrews calls us to trust in God's faithfulness and to approach Him with sincerity, while Mark's Gospel reminds us that our deeds and judgments have consequences. Together, they remind us that our faith should manifest in our actions and that we should be mindful of how we treat others. This connection highlights the importance of living in a way that aligns our inner beliefs with our outward actions.
Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are encouraged to examine our faith and ensure it is evident in our deeds. We should approach each day with sincerity, trusting in God's presence and guidance. Additionally, we must be cautious in how we judge others, recognizing that the measure we use will be the measure we receive. This calls for compassion and fairness in our interactions. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's faithfulness and live with integrity and compassion, ensuring that our actions reflect our beliefs and that we treat others with the kindness and fairness we desire for ourselves.