Daily Readings - Sat Feb 23 2019
Hebrews
1Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.2This is what the ancients were commended for.3By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible.4By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead.5By faith Enoch was taken from this life, so that he did not experience death; he could not be found, because God had taken him away. For before he was taken, he was commended as one who pleased God.6And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.7By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith.
Mark
2After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them.3His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them.4And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.5Peter said to Jesus, "Rabbi, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters--one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah."6(He did not know what to say, they were so frightened.)7Then a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and a voice came from the cloud: "This is my Son, whom I love. Listen to him!"8Suddenly, when they looked around, they no longer saw anyone with them except Jesus.9As they were coming down the mountain, Jesus gave them orders not to tell anyone what they had seen until the Son of Man had risen from the dead.10They kept the matter to themselves, discussing what "rising from the dead" meant.11And they asked him, "Why do the teachers of the law say that Elijah must come first?"12Jesus replied, "To be sure, Elijah does come first, and restores all things. Why then is it written that the Son of Man must suffer much and be rejected?13But I tell you, Elijah has come, and they have done to him everything they wished, just as it is written about him."
Sermon
In today's readings, we explore the essence of faith and its transformative power. The first reading from Hebrews 11 defines faith as the assurance of things hoped for and the conviction of things unseen. Through examples like Abel, Enoch, and Noah, we see faith in action—each trusting in God's promises despite the unknown. This chapter, often called the "Hall of Faith," highlights how these individuals' faith led to remarkable outcomes, shaping the world and their relationship with God.
The Gospel from Mark 9 recounts the Transfiguration, a pivotal moment where Jesus' divine nature is revealed to Peter, James, and John. Appearing with Elijah and Moses, Jesus embodies the fulfillment of the Law and the Prophets. The voice from the cloud affirms Jesus as the beloved Son, urging the disciples to listen to Him. This event strengthens their faith as they prepare for the trials ahead, illustrating how faith reveals God's presence and plan.
Both readings emphasize faith's role in navigating life's uncertainties. Just as the figures in Hebrews trusted God's promises and the disciples found strength in the Transfiguration, we too can rely on faith to guide us. In our daily lives, faith helps us trust in God's plan, even when the path is unclear. It encourages us to act with courage and hope, knowing that God's promises are steadfast. Let us embrace faith, allowing it to transform our lives and deepen our trust in God's providence.