Daily Readings - Thu Feb 20 2020
James
1My brothers, as believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ, don't show favoritism.2Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in.3If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet,"4have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?5Listen, my dear brothers: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?6But you have insulted the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court?7Are they not the ones who are slandering the noble name of him to whom you belong?8If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, "Love your neighbor as yourself," you are doing right.9But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
Mark
27Jesus and his disciples went on to the villages around Caesarea Philippi. On the way he asked them, "Who do people say I am?"28They replied, "Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, one of the prophets."29"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Peter answered, "You are the Christ. "30Jesus warned them not to tell anyone about him.31He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, chief priests and teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again.32He spoke plainly about this, and Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him.33But when Jesus turned and looked at his disciples, he rebuked Peter. "Get behind me, Satan!" he said. "You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter profound lessons on faith, humility, and discipleship. The first reading from James warns against favoritism, urging us to treat the poor with dignity, as God has chosen them to be rich in faith. James reminds us that true faith is demonstrated through actions, particularly in how we love and respect all people, regardless of their status. The Gospel from Mark presents a pivotal moment where Jesus reveals his impending suffering and resurrection. Peter's resistance highlights the human struggle to accept God's plan, but Jesus emphasizes the necessity of embracing the cross, teaching us that true discipleship requires self-denial and trust in divine providence.
Both readings intertwine themes of faith and discipleship, challenging us to live out our beliefs authentically. James calls us to recognize God's presence in the marginalized, while Mark's Gospel invites us to embrace the cross, understanding that our struggles contribute to a greater purpose. Together, they remind us that faith is not merely intellectual assent but a commitment to humility and service.
In our daily lives, these readings encourage us to reflect on how we treat others and our willingness to carry our own crosses. Let us strive to love without favoritism and trust in God's plan, even when it is difficult. May we embrace humility and faith, recognizing that our struggles can lead to spiritual growth and a deeper union with Christ.