Here are some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 11th Week of the Year.
1st Reading – Ezekiel 17:22-24
God will plant a cedar shoot on a high and lofty mountain where it will become a majestic tree.
All the trees of the field shall know that the Lord has done this.
Psalm – 92:2-3,13-16
“Lord, it is good to give thanks to you.”
We give praise to God who nourishes us so that we can grow, thrive, and bear fruit.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 5:6-10
Because of the gift of faith we are courageous as we face our daily fears and challenges.
We aspire to please God, knowing that one day we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ.
Gospel – Mark 4:26-34
Jesus uses plants as parables to illustrate how the Kingdom of God starts small, is a process that is guided by the Lord, and becomes a large and majestic creation.
On his way to Damascus to hunt for followers of Christ, Paul is struck to the ground and blinded. Having his sight restored through Ananias’ intercession, the one who formerly persecuted the Church now becomes a shining example of faith.
The leaders and scribes are powerless to respond to the healing miracle, as the boldness of Peter and John reveals their conviction to follow Jesus Christ in the face of persecution.
Peter, strengthened by his faith in Christ and filled with the Holy Spirit, boldly addresses the leaders and courageously claims that Jesus is the Lord.
Before he departs from Miletus, Paul offers some parting advice to the disciples that combines hard-nosed common sense, mingled with faith and tender compassion.
Both Isaiah and Peter face their fears as they embrace the Lord’s invitation and follow with all their heart. May their example inspire us to echo the words of Isaiah: Here I am Lord! Send me!