Daily Catholic Mass Readings for July 26, 2022
First Reading: Sirach 44.1, 8, 10-15
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Psalm 132
1A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, and all his afflictions:2How he sware unto the LORD, and vowed unto the mighty God of Jacob;3Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed;4I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,5Until I find out a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.6Lo, we heard of it at Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.7We will go into his tabernacles: we will worship at his footstool.8Arise, O LORD, into thy rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.9Let thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.10For thy servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.11The LORD hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.12If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall also sit upon thy throne for evermore.13For the LORD hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation.14This is my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have desired it.15I will abundantly bless her provision: I will satisfy her poor with bread.16I will also clothe her priests with salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.17There will I make the horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed.18His enemies will I clothe with shame: but upon himself shall his crown flourish.
Gospel: Matthew 13.16-17
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the legacy of faith and the privilege of encountering God in our lives. The first reading from Sirach praises the ancestors who left a lasting legacy through their virtuous deeds, emphasizing that their impact endures through generations. Their names and deeds are celebrated, not just for their achievements, but for their faithfulness to God's covenant. This passage reminds us that our actions have a lasting effect, shaping the future for those who come after us.
In the Gospel, Matthew highlights the unique blessing bestowed upon the disciples. Jesus points out that many prophets and righteous individuals longed to experience the revelation that the disciples were privileged to witness. This underscores the significance of being part of a community that has received the gift of faith and the responsibility that comes with it. Just as the ancestors in Sirach left a legacy, we too are called to live in a way that honors our faith and recognizes the blessings we've received.
As we apply these readings to our daily lives, we are reminded to live with gratitude and mindfulness. Our actions today will shape the legacy we leave for future generations. Let us strive to be faithful stewards of the gifts we've been given, just as our ancestors were. May we embrace the blessings of our time with humility and use them to build a legacy of love, compassion, and faithfulness. In doing so, we honor the past while contributing to a future rooted in God's grace.