Daily Readings - Mon Apr 15 2019
Isaiah
1"Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen one in whom I delight; I will put my Spirit on him and he will bring justice to the nations.2He will not shout or cry out, or raise his voice in the streets.3A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out. In faithfulness he will bring forth justice;4he will not falter or be discouraged till he establishes justice on earth. In his law the islands will put their hope."5This is what God the LORD says- he who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and all that comes out of it, who gives breath to its people, and life to those who walk on it:6"I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles,7to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.
John
1Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead.2Here a dinner was given in Jesus' honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with him.3Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus' feet and wiped his feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.4But one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected,5"Why wasn't this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year's wages. "6He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.7"Leave her alone," Jesus replied. "It was intended that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial.8You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me."9Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of him but also to see Lazarus, whom he had raised from the dead.10So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well,11for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in him.
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter profound reflections on service, love, and the divine plan. The first reading from Isaiah introduces us to the figure of the suffering servant, chosen by God to bring justice and light to the nations. This servant, humble and gentle, will not break the bruised reed or extinguish the smoldering wick, symbolizing his compassion and care for the vulnerable. Isaiah’s prophecy points to a Messiah who will lead with truth and hope, even in darkness.
The Gospel from John presents us with a vivid scene of love and betrayal. Mary’s anointing of Jesus with precious ointment is an act of profound devotion, preparing him for his burial. While Judas objects, focusing on material concerns, Jesus defends Mary’s gesture, emphasizing that her love is a testament to his impending sacrifice. This moment highlights the contrast between worldly priorities and the selfless love that defines God’s plan.
These readings remind us that our faith calls us to embody humility and compassion. Like the suffering servant, we are invited to serve others gently and bring light to those in darkness. Like Mary, we are called to express our love for God generously, even in the face of criticism or misunderstanding. Let us reflect on how we can live out these values in our daily lives, trusting in God’s plan and offering our own acts of love and service to others.