Daily Readings - Fri Jun 02 2023
Mark
11And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple: and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.12And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry:13And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not yet.14And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.15And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves;16And would not suffer that any man should carry any vessel through the temple.17And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.18And the scribes and chief priests heard it, and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine.19And when even was come, he went out of the city.20And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.21And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.22And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.23For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.24Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.25And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.
Sermon
The readings today invite us to reflect on the power of faith, the importance of integrity, and the call to live in a way that honors God and benefits others. In the first reading from Sirach, we hear about the legacy of those who lived virtuous lives, leaving behind a name that endures because of their mercy and faithfulness. Their good deeds, rooted in a deep trust in God, continue to bear fruit in their descendants and in the world. This passage reminds us that our actions have consequences and that living a life of integrity and compassion can leave a lasting impact.
In the Gospel, Mark presents two powerful scenes: Jesus cleansing the temple and cursing the fig tree. The temple, meant to be a house of prayer, had become a place of exploitation and greed. Jesus’ action is a call to reclaim sacred spaces and to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness. The fig tree, which appeared promising but bore no fruit, serves as a warning against spiritual barrenness. Jesus then teaches his disciples about the power of faith and forgiveness, emphasizing that our relationship with God must be rooted in trust and reconciliation.
These readings challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we bearing fruit that reflects our faith? Are we living in a way that honors God and serves others? Like the ancestors praised in Sirach, we are called to live with mercy and integrity. Like the disciples, we are reminded that faith can move mountains, but it must be accompanied by forgiveness and humility. Let us strive to create a legacy of love and trust in God, and may our lives be fruitful in ways that glorify Him and bless those around us.