Daily Readings - Thu Jan 31 2019

Hebrews

19Therefore, brothers, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,20by a new and living way opened for us through the curtain, that is, his body,21and since we have a great priest over the house of God,22let us draw near to God with a sincere heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.23Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Mark

21He said to them, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or a bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand?22For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed, and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open.23If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear."24"Consider carefully what you hear," he continued. "With the measure you use, it will be measured to you--and even more.25Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken from him."

Sermon

In today's readings, we are invited to reflect on the themes of faith, integrity, and the consequences of our actions. The first reading from Hebrews encourages believers to approach God with a true heart, trusting in the sacrifice of Christ, which opens the way to the Holy of Holies. This passage, written to early Christians facing persecution, urges them to remain steadfast in their faith and to support one another in their spiritual journey. The second reading from Mark presents Jesus teaching about the inevitability of revelation and the importance of mindful judgment. Using the parable of the lamp, Jesus emphasizes that our actions and intentions will ultimately be revealed, and we will be measured by the same standard we use for others. Both readings connect through their emphasis on living authentically and with integrity. Hebrews calls us to trust in God's faithfulness and to approach Him with sincerity, while Mark's Gospel reminds us that our deeds and judgments have consequences. Together, they remind us that our faith should manifest in our actions and that we should be mindful of how we treat others. This connection highlights the importance of living in a way that aligns our inner beliefs with our outward actions. Applying these teachings to our daily lives, we are encouraged to examine our faith and ensure it is evident in our deeds. We should approach each day with sincerity, trusting in God's presence and guidance. Additionally, we must be cautious in how we judge others, recognizing that the measure we use will be the measure we receive. This calls for compassion and fairness in our interactions. The moral lesson here is clear: trust in God's faithfulness and live with integrity and compassion, ensuring that our actions reflect our beliefs and that we treat others with the kindness and fairness we desire for ourselves.