Daily Catholic Mass Readings for October 8, 2024
First Reading: Galatians 1.13-24
13For you have heard of my previous way of life in Judaism, how intensely I persecuted the church of God and tried to destroy it.14I was advancing in Judaism beyond many Jews of my own age and was extremely zealous for the traditions of my fathers.15But when God, who set me apart from birth and called me by his grace, was pleased16to reveal his Son in me so that I might preach him among the Gentiles, I did not consult any man,17nor did I go up to Jerusalem to see those who were apostles before I was, but I went immediately into Arabia and later returned to Damascus.18Then after three years, I went up to Jerusalem to get acquainted with Peter and stayed with him fifteen days.19I saw none of the other apostles--only James, the Lord's brother.20I assure you before God that what I am writing you is no lie.21Later I went to Syria and Cilicia.22I was personally unknown to the churches of Judea that are in Christ.23They only heard the report: "The man who formerly persecuted us is now preaching the faith he once tried to destroy."24And they praised God because of me.
Psalm 139
1O LORD, you have searched me and you know me.2You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar.3You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways.4Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O LORD.5You hem me in-behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me.6Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.7Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?8If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.9If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea,10even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.11If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,"12even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.13For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb.14I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.15My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth,16your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.17How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!18Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.19If only you would slay the wicked, O God! Away from me, you bloodthirsty men!20They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name.21Do I not hate those who hate you, O LORD, and abhor those who rise up against you?22I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies.23Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts.24See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.
Gospel: Luke 10.38-42
38As Jesus and his disciples were on their way, he came to a village where a woman named Martha opened her home to him.39She had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord's feet listening to what he said.40But Martha was distracted by all the preparations that had to be made. She came to him and asked, "Lord, don't you care that my sister has left me to do the work by myself? Tell her to help me!"41"Martha, Martha," the Lord answered, "you are worried and upset about many things,42but only one thing is needed. Mary has chosen what is better, and it will not be taken away from her."
Sermon
In today's readings, we encounter two profound narratives that invite us to reflect on our spiritual journey and priorities. The first reading from Galatians recounts Paul's transformation from a zealous persecutor of the Church to a humble apostle, emphasizing his divine call and mission to the Gentiles. This passage underscores Paul's recognition of God's grace and his unwavering commitment to spreading the faith, despite his past. The Gospel from Luke presents the story of Martha and Mary, where Martha is absorbed in serving while Mary chooses to listen to Jesus. Jesus gently reminds Martha that while service is good, focusing on Him is the greater priority.
Both readings highlight the importance of spiritual focus and transformation. Paul's journey illustrates how God can transform even the most unlikely individuals, calling them to a higher purpose. Similarly, Mary's choice to sit at Jesus' feet reminds us that amidst life's busyness, our primary focus should be on nurturing our relationship with God. These stories encourage us to balance our active lives with moments of contemplation and listening, ensuring that our spiritual well-being is not overshadowed by worldly tasks.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to examine our priorities. Like Martha, we may often find ourselves preoccupied with tasks, but Mary's example teaches us the value of pausing to listen and be present with God. Paul's transformation challenges us to remain open to God's call, trusting in His grace and purpose for our lives. The moral lesson here is the necessity of balance—engaging in service while also cultivating a deep, personal connection with God. By prioritizing our spiritual life, we can, like Mary, choose the better part, which will never be taken away.