Daily Readings - Sat Feb 18 2023
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 encounter powerful lessons about faith, trust, and the divine plan. The first reading from Hebrews reminds us that faith is the foundation of our relationship with God. It is the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things unseen. The examples of Abel, Enoch, and Noah illustrate how faith leads to actions that please God and bring His justice into the world. These ancient figures trusted in God’s promises, even when the future was uncertain, and their faith was rewarded. The reading challenges us to reflect on our own faith: do we trust in God’s existence and His plan, even when we cannot see the full picture?
The Gospel from Mark presents the Transfiguration, a moment of profound revelation for Peter, James, and John. Jesus, appearing in glory alongside Moses and Elijah, is affirmed by the Father’s voice as the beloved Son. This event is a turning point for the disciples, offering them a glimpse of Jesus’ divine identity and strengthening their faith before the trials ahead. Peter’s impulsive suggestion to build tabernacles reveals his limited understanding, but the Father’s command to “listen to him” reminds us all to trust in Jesus’ words and plan. The Transfiguration also connects to the broader story of salvation, as Elijah’s appearance hints at the fulfillment of prophecy and the ultimate triumph of God’s plan.
These readings invite us to reflect on how we live out our faith in daily life. Like the figures in Hebrews, we are called to trust in God’s promises, even when the path ahead is unclear. Like the disciples, we must learn to listen to Jesus and follow His lead, even when it challenges our assumptions. In a world filled with uncertainty, faith and trust in God’s plan are our anchors. Let us ask ourselves: Where am I being called to trust God more deeply? How can I listen more attentively to His voice in my life? May we, like the saints of old, walk by faith and not by sight, knowing that God’s justice and love will ultimately prevail.