Daily Catholic Mass Readings for February 25, 2021
First Reading: Esther 14.1, 3-5, 12-14
Psalm 138
1I will praise you, O LORD, with all my heart; before the "gods" I will sing your praise.2I will bow down toward your holy temple and will praise your name for your love and your faithfulness, for you have exalted above all things your name and your word.3When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.4May all the kings of the earth praise you, O LORD, when they hear the words of your mouth.5May they sing of the ways of the LORD, for the glory of the LORD is great.6Though the LORD is on high, he looks upon the lowly, but the proud he knows from afar.7Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the anger of my foes, with your right hand you save me.8The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your love, O LORD, endures forever- do not abandon the works of your hands.
Gospel: Matthew 7.7-12
7"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.8For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.9"Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?10Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?11If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!12So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two powerful narratives that guide us in our faith journey. The first reading from Esther presents a moment of profound crisis and trust. Esther, facing imminent danger, turns to God in prayer, acknowledging His sovereignty and seeking His intervention. Her plea is not just for herself but for her people, demonstrating a selfless faith that trusts in God's providence. This story, rooted in the Jewish scriptures, highlights Esther's courage and reliance on God, setting an example for us when we face our own challenges.
The Gospel from Matthew shifts our focus to Jesus' teachings on prayer and ethical living. Jesus assures us that God, our loving Father, will respond to our needs when we ask with faith. He uses the analogy of a father giving good gifts to his children to illustrate God's generosity. Jesus then extends this teaching to the golden rule, urging us to treat others as we wish to be treated. This principle, central to the Sermon on the Mount, calls us to live with compassion and kindness, reflecting God's love in our actions.
These readings connect through their emphasis on trust and ethical behavior. Esther's trust in God's deliverance is mirrored in Jesus' assurance of God's provision. Both challenge us to live out our faith in daily life. When facing difficulties, we can draw strength from Esther's example, trusting in God's plan. Similarly, in our interactions, we are called to embody the golden rule, treating others with the same love and respect we desire. This dual focus on faith and action reminds us that our relationship with God is not just about belief but also about how we live and treat others. Let us strive to trust God deeply and love our neighbors genuinely, reflecting His grace in all we do.