Daily Readings - Sat Jan 18 2025
Hebrews
12For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.13Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.14Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession.15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.16Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
Mark
13And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.14And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.15And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus and his disciples: for there were many, and they followed him.16And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners?17When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound truths about God's nature and Jesus' mission. The passage from Hebrews reminds us of the power and piercing nature of God's Word, which sees into the depths of our souls. It also presents Jesus as our compassionate High Priest, who understands our weaknesses and invites us to approach God's throne with confidence.
The Gospel from Mark illustrates Jesus' ministry to the marginalized, as He calls Levi, a tax collector, and dines with sinners. This act of inclusion sparks criticism from the Pharisees, to which Jesus responds by emphasizing His mission to call not the righteous, but sinners. This highlights His message of mercy and the importance of reaching out to those on the fringes.
These readings together remind us of the dual nature of our faith: the powerful Word of God and the compassionate heart of Jesus. In our daily lives, we are called to embrace both—confidently approaching God, knowing He understands our struggles, and emulating Jesus' openness to others. Let us reflect on our own humility and willingness to engage with those around us, just as Jesus did, fostering a community of compassion and inclusion.