Daily Readings - Fri May 28 2021
Mark
11Jesus entered Jerusalem and went to the temple. He looked around at everything, but since it was already late, he went out to Bethany with the Twelve.12The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry.13Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs.14Then he said to the tree, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it.15On reaching Jerusalem, Jesus entered the temple area and began driving out those who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves,16and would not allow anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts.17And as he taught them, he said, "Is it not written: "'My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations'? But you have made it 'a den of robbers.'"18The chief priests and the teachers of the law heard this and began looking for a way to kill him, for they feared him, because the whole crowd was amazed at his teaching.19When evening came, they went out of the city.20In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots.21Peter remembered and said to Jesus, "Rabbi, look! The fig tree you cursed has withered!"22"Have faith in God," Jesus answered.23"I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go, throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him.24Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.25And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins."
Sermon
In today's readings, we reflect on the themes of legacy, faith, and spiritual fruitfulness. The first reading from Sirach reminds us that while some may fade into obscurity, those who live virtuous lives leave a lasting, positive impact. Their deeds and mercy ensure a holy inheritance for their descendants, highlighting the importance of living with integrity and compassion.
The Gospel from Mark presents Jesus' encounter with a barren fig tree, which serves as a powerful symbol of spiritual barrenness. Jesus' curse on the tree and his subsequent teachings emphasize the necessity of bearing spiritual fruit. The withered fig tree illustrates the consequences of not living a fruitful spiritual life. Jesus then teaches about the power of faith and prayer, stressing the importance of forgiveness in our relationship with God and others.
As we apply these lessons to our daily lives, we are reminded to examine our actions and their impact. Just as the fig tree was judged for its lack of fruit, we too are called to bear fruit through our deeds and prayers. Let us strive to live with faith and integrity, ensuring that our legacy is one of love, mercy, and spiritual richness. May we cultivate a deep faith, forgive others, and seek a fruitful spiritual life, inspiring others through our actions and prayers.