Daily Readings - Tue May 25 2021
Mark
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.31But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.
Sermon
The first reading from Sirach reminds us that true sacrifice is not just about external rituals but about living a life of integrity and justice. It emphasizes that withdrawing from sin and acting with mercy are the most pleasing offerings we can give to God. The reading encourages us to approach God with gratitude, generosity, and sincerity, for it is in these ways that we honor Him and align our lives with His will. The second reading from Mark’s Gospel shifts our focus to the radical call of discipleship. Peter and the other disciples had left everything to follow Jesus, and in response, Jesus promises that their sacrifice will be abundantly rewarded—not only in this life but also in the age to come. However, He also warns that the first will be last and the last will be first, challenging our notions of status, reward, and true greatness.
Both readings invite us to reflect on how we live out our faith in practical ways. Sirach calls us to a life of moral integrity and generosity, while Mark’s Gospel reminds us that following Christ requires sacrifice and humility. Together, they teach us that our relationship with God is not about outward appearances or material offerings but about the condition of our hearts and the way we live out His commandments. The readings encourage us to trust in God’s providence, knowing that our sacrifices and efforts to live justly will bear fruit, even if the rewards are not always immediate or visible.
In our daily lives, this means being mindful of how we use our time, talents, and resources. It means choosing to act with justice, mercy, and generosity, even when it is difficult or inconvenient. It also means embracing the challenges of discipleship with faith and trust, knowing that God’s ways are not our ways, and His timing is not our timing. Let us strive to live with hearts that are truly converted, offering ourselves to God in sacrifice and trusting that He will transform us and use us for His greater glory.