Daily Catholic Mass Readings for September 28, 2021
First Reading: Zechariah 8.20-23
20This is what the LORD Almighty says: "Many peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come,21and the inhabitants of one city will go to another and say, 'Let us go at once to entreat the LORD and seek the LORD Almighty. I myself am going.'22And many peoples and powerful nations will come to Jerusalem to seek the LORD Almighty and to entreat him."23This is what the LORD Almighty says: "In those days ten men from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.'"
Psalm 87
1He has set his foundation on the holy mountain;2the LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.3Glorious things are said of you, O city of God: Selah4"I will record Rahab and Babylon among those who acknowledge me- Philistia too, and Tyre, along with Cush - and will say, 'This one was born in Zion.'"5Indeed, of Zion it will be said, "This one and that one were born in her, and the Most High himself will establish her."6The LORD will write in the register of the peoples: "This one was born in Zion." Selah7As they make music they will sing, "All my fountains are in you."
Gospel: Luke 9.51-56
51As the time approached for him to be taken up to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem.52And he sent messengers on ahead, who went into a Samaritan village to get things ready for him;53but the people there did not welcome him, because he was heading for Jerusalem.54When the disciples James and John saw this, they asked, "Lord, do you want us to call fire down from heaven to destroy them?"55But Jesus turned and rebuked them,56and they went to another village.
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound messages that guide us in our spiritual journey. The first reading from Zechariah 8:20-23 paints a vivid picture of a future where people from all nations gather in Jerusalem, united by their quest to seek the Lord. This vision emphasizes a time of unity and hope, where God's presence among His people attracts the world. The Gospel from Luke 9:51-56 presents Jesus resolutely journeying to Jerusalem, only to face rejection by the Samaritans. When his disciples suggest retaliation, Jesus gently rebukes them, affirming his mission of salvation over destruction.
The context of Zechariah's prophecy is set in a time of rebuilding and hope for the Israelites, encouraging them to trust in God's future blessings. Luke's narrative, on the other hand, highlights Jesus' unwavering commitment to his mission, even in the face of rejection. Both readings underscore the importance of seeking God and responding to adversity with grace.
These passages remind us to embrace unity and compassion in our daily lives. Just as Zechariah envisions people from all nations coming together, we should strive to create inclusive communities. Like Jesus, we must respond to rejection with love rather than anger. Let us seek God with others and reflect His love in all our interactions, trusting in His plan of salvation.