Daily Catholic Mass Readings for July 26, 2023
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 first reading from Sirach invites us to reflect on the legacy of our ancestors and the enduring impact of their virtuous lives. The author praises those who have gone before us, not merely for their achievements, but for their fidelity to God and their commitment to living according to His will. These individuals left behind not only a name but also a spiritual inheritance—a legacy of faith, wisdom, and righteousness that continues to inspire generations. The reading reminds us that our lives are not isolated events but are deeply connected to those who came before us and to those who will come after us. Our actions, like theirs, have the power to shape the future and leave a lasting impact.
The Gospel reading from Matthew shifts our focus to the present moment and the unique blessings we have received. Jesus tells His disciples that they are blessed because they see and hear what many prophets and righteous people longed to experience but did not. This is not a boast but a reminder of the profound grace we have been given to know and follow Him. The prophets of old looked forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises, and now, in Christ, those promises are revealed. Yet with this blessing comes a responsibility—to live in gratitude, to share the gift of faith with others, and to continue the legacy of those who came before us.
Together, these readings call us to live with a sense of gratitude and stewardship. We are heirs of a rich spiritual tradition, and we are called to honor that legacy by living virtuous lives and sharing the blessings we have received. Let us not take for granted the gift of faith or the opportunities we have to grow closer to God. May we, like our ancestors, leave behind a legacy of love, mercy, and fidelity, so that future generations may also know the joy of living in God’s presence.