Daily Readings - Fri Jun 02 2023
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
The readings today invite us to reflect on the power of faith, the importance of integrity, and the call to live in a way that honors God and benefits others. In the first reading from Sirach, we hear about the legacy of those who lived virtuous lives, leaving behind a name that endures because of their mercy and faithfulness. Their good deeds, rooted in a deep trust in God, continue to bear fruit in their descendants and in the world. This passage reminds us that our actions have consequences and that living a life of integrity and compassion can leave a lasting impact.
In the Gospel, Mark presents two powerful scenes: Jesus cleansing the temple and cursing the fig tree. The temple, meant to be a house of prayer, had become a place of exploitation and greed. Jesus’ action is a call to reclaim sacred spaces and to live in a way that reflects God’s holiness. The fig tree, which appeared promising but bore no fruit, serves as a warning against spiritual barrenness. Jesus then teaches his disciples about the power of faith and forgiveness, emphasizing that our relationship with God must be rooted in trust and reconciliation.
These readings challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we bearing fruit that reflects our faith? Are we living in a way that honors God and serves others? Like the ancestors praised in Sirach, we are called to live with mercy and integrity. Like the disciples, we are reminded that faith can move mountains, but it must be accompanied by forgiveness and humility. Let us strive to create a legacy of love and trust in God, and may our lives be fruitful in ways that glorify Him and bless those around us.