Daily Readings - Sat Feb 23 2019
Hebrews
1Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.2For by it the elders obtained a good report.3Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.4By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.5By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.6But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.7By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
Mark
2And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them.3And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them.4And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus.5And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.6For he wist not what to say; for they were sore afraid.7And there was a cloud that overshadowed them: and a voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him.8And suddenly, when they had looked round about, they saw no man any more, save Jesus only with themselves.9And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.10And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning one with another what the rising from the dead should mean.11And they asked him, saying, Why say the scribes that Elias must first come?12And he answered and told them, Elias verily cometh first, and restoreth all things; and how it is written of the Son of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at nought.13But I say unto you, That Elias is indeed come, and they have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him.
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore the essence of faith and its transformative power. The first reading from Hebrews 11 defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things unseen. Through examples like Abel, Enoch, and Noah, we see faith in action—each trusting in God's promises despite the unknown. This chapter, often called the "Hall of Faith," highlights how these individuals' faith led to remarkable outcomes, shaping the world and their relationship with God.
The Gospel from Mark 9 recounts the Transfiguration, a pivotal moment where Jesus' divine nature is revealed to Peter, James, and John. Appearing with Elijah and Moses, Jesus embodies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The voice from the cloud affirms Jesus as the beloved Son, urging the disciples to listen to Him. This event strengthens their faith as they prepare for the trials ahead, illustrating how faith reveals God's presence and plan.
Both readings emphasize faith's role in navigating life's uncertainties. Just as the figures in Hebrews trusted God's promises and the disciples found strength in the Transfiguration, we too can rely on faith to guide us. In our daily lives, faith helps us trust in God's plan, even when the path is unclear. It encourages us to act with courage and hope, knowing that God's promises are steadfast. Let us embrace faith, allowing it to transform our lives and deepen our trust in God's providence.