Daily Readings - Sun Nov 17 2024
Daniel
1And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.2And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt.3And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
Hebrews
11And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:12But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;13From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.14For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.18Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Mark
24But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,25And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that are in heaven shall be shaken.26And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the clouds with great power and glory.27And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.28Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:29So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.30Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all these things be done.31Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.32But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
Sermon
In today's readings, we journey through themes of faith, preparation, and the ultimate triumph of God's plan. The Book of Daniel paints a vivid picture of the end times, where the archangel Michael leads the faithful through a period of great distress. It emphasizes that those whose names are written in the book will be saved, highlighting the importance of steadfast faith and the role of teachers who guide others towards righteousness, shining like stars in eternity.
The Letter to the Hebrews contrasts the endless sacrifices of the Old Covenant with the singular, perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ. His sacrifice, once offered, achieves eternal redemption, underscoring the completeness and sufficiency of His work. This reading invites us to reflect on the profound grace offered through Christ, freeing us from the cycle of sin and sacrifice.
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus describes His glorious return, urging us to be vigilant and attentive to the signs of the times, much like recognizing the budding of a fig tree. He reminds us that while the exact timing of His return is unknown, His words endure eternally. This calls us to live each day with purpose, nurturing our faith, and sharing the Good News with others.
As we reflect on these readings, let us embrace a life of preparedness and trust in God's timing. May we remain faithful, teach others with love, and trust in the eternal power of Christ's sacrifice. Let us live each day mindful of God's presence, ready to meet Him, and steadfast in our commitment to His will.