Daily Readings - Fri Sep 15 2017

⁷During the days of Jesus' life on earth, he offered up prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to the one who could save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverent submission.⁸Although he was a son, he learned obedience from what he suffered⁹and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him

Gospel - Luke 2.33-35 or John 19.25-27

Luke

Chapter 2

³³The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him.³⁴Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against,³⁵so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

John

Chapter 19

²⁵Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.²⁶When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, "Dear woman, here is your son,"²⁷and to the disciple, "Here is your mother." From that time on, this disciple took her into his home.

Sermon

In today's readings, we encounter profound insights into the mission and humanity of Jesus Christ. The first reading from Hebrews highlights Jesus's deep humanity as He prays with fervor and tears, seeking salvation, and through His suffering, He learns obedience, becoming the source of eternal salvation for the obedient. This passage underscores Jesus's role as the perfect high priest, who, through His human experience, intercedes for us. The Gospel from Luke presents Simeon's prophecy at the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple. Simeon foretells that Jesus will be a sign of contradiction, causing both the rise and fall of many, and that Mary's soul will be pierced by a sword, symbolizing the suffering she will endure as Jesus's mother. This passage emphasizes the impact of Jesus's mission and the role of Mary in bearing witness to His journey. Both readings intertwine the themes of obedience and suffering. Jesus's obedience amidst suffering becomes the cornerstone of salvation, while Mary's endurance of a pierced soul exemplifies steadfast faith. These narratives invite us to reflect on our own responses to challenges. Just as Jesus and Mary trusted in God's plan, we too can find strength in prayer and obedience during our struggles. Embracing this trust, we can navigate life's hardships with faith, contributing to the greater good and drawing closer to God. Let us strive to emulate their example, finding spiritual growth and purpose in our trials.