Daily Catholic Mass Readings for October 10, 2021
First Reading: Wisdom 7.7-11
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Psalm 90
1Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.2Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.3You turn men back to dust, saying, "Return to dust, O sons of men."4For a thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.5You sweep men away in the sleep of death; they are like the new grass of the morning-6though in the morning it springs up new, by evening it is dry and withered.7We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation.8You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence.9All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan.10The length of our days is seventy years- or eighty, if we have the strength; yet their span is but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.11Who knows the power of your anger? For your wrath is as great as the fear that is due you.12Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.13Relent, O LORD! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants.14Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.15Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble.16May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children.17May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us- yes, establish the work of our hands.
Second Reading: Hebrews 4.12-13
12For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double--edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.13Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.
Gospel: Mark 10.17-27
17As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?"18"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good--except God alone.19You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'"20"Teacher," he declared, "all these I have kept since I was a boy."21Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack," he said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me."22At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.23Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!"24The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, "Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!25It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."26The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, "Who then can be saved?"27Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God."
Sermon
In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the nature of true wealth and the power of God’s Word. The Book of Wisdom extols the virtues of wisdom, portraying it as a treasure beyond all material riches. The author chooses wisdom over kingdoms and thrones, recognizing its incomparable value. This passage reminds us that true wealth lies not in possessions but in the wisdom that brings all good things.
The Gospel of Mark presents a rich young man who, despite his wealth, seeks eternal life. Jesus challenges him to let go of his possessions and follow Him, highlighting the difficulty the wealthy face in entering the kingdom of God. This encounter underscores the tension between earthly wealth and spiritual wealth, urging us to evaluate our priorities and trust in God’s providence.
Hebrews reinforces this message by describing God’s Word as a powerful, discerning force that sees into the heart of all things. This passage invites us to trust in God’s wisdom and providence, recognizing that true transformation comes from within. As we navigate our own lives, may we embrace the wisdom that values spiritual wealth over material comfort, trusting in God’s power to make all things possible.