Daily Readings - Sat Sep 15 2018

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

The readings today offer a profound reflection on the nature of Jesus' mission and the role of suffering in our faith journey. In the first reading from Hebrews, we encounter Jesus in His humanity, praying with fervor and tears, seeking salvation. This passage emphasizes His obedience and the divine plan, where His suffering leads to eternal salvation for those who follow Him. The context of Hebrews is a letter to early Christians, explaining Jesus' role as a high priest who understands human struggles, thereby making Him the perfect mediator. The Gospel from Luke presents a scene from the temple where Simeon recognizes the infant Jesus as the Messiah. Simeon's words to Mary highlight the dual nature of Jesus' mission—bringing both ruin and resurrection, and acting as a sign of contradiction. This passage underscores the early recognition of Jesus' purpose and the impact it will have on Israel. The context here is part of Luke's infancy narrative, setting the stage for Jesus' public life and the divine plan unfolding. Both readings intertwine the themes of mission and suffering. Jesus' obedience and the impact of His mission on others, particularly Mary, illustrate that suffering is integral to God's plan. This relationship invites us to reflect on our own struggles and trust in God's purpose. In our daily lives, we are called to embrace our challenges with faith, recognizing that they can lead to growth and salvation. The moral lesson is clear: obedience and trust in God, even amidst suffering, are essential. Just as Jesus' journey included suffering for a greater purpose, so too can our struggles have meaning, guiding us toward eternal salvation.