Daily Readings - Tue Feb 21 2023
Mark
30And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee; and he would not that any man should know it.31For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day.32But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to ask him.33And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way?34But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest.35And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all.36And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,37Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the themes of trust in God’s providence, humility, and selfless service. In the first reading from Sirach, we are reminded that true wisdom lies in enduring trials with patience and faith, believing that God’s plan is at work even in the midst of suffering. The author encourages us to embrace humility and perseverance, trusting that God will restore and reward those who remain faithful. This passage is part of a larger section in Sirach that emphasizes the importance of living virtuously and trusting in God’s wisdom, even when life’s challenges seem overwhelming.
In the Gospel, Mark presents Jesus teaching his disciples about his impending passion and resurrection, but they fail to understand. Their confusion leads to an argument about who is the greatest among them. Jesus responds by teaching them that true greatness lies in humility and service. He uses a child as an example, emphasizing that receiving the vulnerable and the weak with love is equivalent to receiving Christ himself. This passage is part of Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, where he repeatedly emphasizes the cost of discipleship and the necessity of living with humility and compassion.
Together, these readings call us to re-examine our priorities and our relationship with God and others. Sirach reminds us to trust in God’s plan, even when the road is difficult, while Mark’s Gospel challenges us to embrace humility and serve others selflessly. In our daily lives, we are invited to let go of our need for control and recognition, and instead, to trust in God’s providence and to love and serve those around us, especially the most vulnerable. May we strive to live with the humility and faith that these readings inspire, trusting that God’s mercy and love will guide us through every trial.