Daily Readings - Tue May 29 2018

¹⁰Concerning this salvation, the prophets, who spoke of the grace that was to come to you, searched intently and with the greatest care,¹¹trying to find out the time and circumstances to which the Spirit of Christ in them was pointing when he predicted the sufferings of Christ and the glories that would follow.¹²It was revealed to them that they were not serving themselves but you, when they spoke of the things that have now been told you by those who have preached the gospel to you by the Holy Spirit sent from heaven. Even angels long to look into these things.¹³Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed.¹⁴As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance.¹⁵But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do;¹⁶for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."

Mark

Chapter 10

²⁸Peter said to him, "We have left everything to follow you!"²⁹"I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the gospel³⁰will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields--and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life.³¹But many who are first will be last, and the last first."

Sermon

In today’s readings, we are reminded of the profound commitment required in following Christ and the promise of eternal life that accompanies such devotion. The first reading from 1 Peter encourages believers to live holy lives, reflecting on the prophets who foretold the sufferings and glories of Christ. This passage, written to early Christians facing persecution, underscores the importance of maintaining a steadfast faith and virtuous living despite challenges. The Gospel from Mark highlights the sacrifices made by the disciples and Jesus’ assurance of abundant rewards, both in this life and the next. He also reminds us that our earthly status does not determine our eternal standing, emphasizing humility and trust in God’s plan. These readings are deeply connected, as both emphasize the transformative power of faith. Peter calls us to holiness, not out of fear, but out of love and reverence for God. Mark’s Gospel challenges us to embrace sacrifice and trust in God’s promise of eternal life. Together, they invite us to reevaluate our priorities and commitments, aligning them with the values of the Kingdom of God. In our daily lives, these teachings call us to live with integrity, compassion, and hope. We are to remain faithful, even when faced with difficulties, trusting that our sacrifices contribute to a greater purpose. Let us strive to be holy, not in our own strength, but through the grace of God, and let us trust in His promise of eternal life. May we live each day with the conviction that our commitment to Christ will yield abundant fruit, both now and forever.