The Gospel parables remind us that growth happens over time, often when we least expect. Let us learn the lessons of the pandemic and call upon God’s grace that we may continue to grow to our full stature as sons and daughters of the Most High.
Let’s take a look at some of the major themes we find in the readings for the 11th Sunday of Ordinary Time.
1st Reading – Ezekiel 17:22-24
The prophet offers the cedar as a sign of God’s restoration for the people of Israel, which will be ultimately fulfilled in the Kingdom of God.
God’s power reigns supreme over all creation.
Psalm – 92:2-3,13-14,15-16
“Lord, it is good to give thanks to you.”
God is praised for mighty deeds that bring blessings to those who live holy lives.
2nd Reading – 2nd Corinthians 5:6-10
We remain courageous as we follow the Lord in faith.
In both life and death we belong to the Lord, from whom we will receive recompense for the good or evil we have done.
Gospel – Mark 4:26-34
This passage offers two parables about the kingdom of God that highlight the contrast between the humble beginnings of a seed and the final glory of a mature plant.
The simple start of a small seed reminds us that God’s power touches the little and the lowly, resulting in a final creation beyond our expectation.
The exchange between Jesus and Bartimaeus reveals the Lord’s profound compassion in the midst of human suffering. May the faith of a blind man inspire us to turn to Jesus Christ for the grace we need each day.
The feast of Pentecost brings the season of Easter to a stunning conclusion with several Scripture options, depending on the Mass you attend and the choice of the presider. Let’s take a look:
Vigil Mass
Genesis 11:1-9 – The tower of Babel
Exodus 19:3-8,16-20 – Moses leads the people to meet God at the foot of Mount Sinai
Ezekiel 37:1-14 – God brings the Spirit and restores the dried bones to life
Joel 3:1-5 – God will pour the Spirit upon the people
Psalm 104 – “Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.”
Romans 8:22-27 – The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness
John 7:37-39 – Jesus speaks of the Spirit as a living water that flows from within
Mass during the Day
Acts 2:1-11 – The Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples and they speak many different languages
Psalm 104 – “Lord, send out your Spirit, and renew the face of the earth.”
1 Corinthians 12:3-7,12-13 – The Spirit gives many different gifts and unites the many parts of the body
Galatians 5:16-25 – Live and be guided by the Spirit and the fruit of the Spirit
John 20:19-23 – Jesus breathes on the disciples, offering them peace and the Holy Spirit
John 15:26-27; 16:12-15 – Jesus speaks of the Spirit of truth, the Advocate
These readings are all powerful reminders that the Holy Spirit is among us! May we call upon the Spirit each and every day for the strength and wisdom we need as we strive to offer our lives for the Lord.
Come Holy Spirit! Fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love. Send forth your Spirit, and they shall be created. And you will renew the face of the earth. O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit, did instruct the hearts of the faithful, grant that by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations. Through Christ our Lord. Amen!
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Following the death of Stephen the disciples face violent persecution even as they continue to grow in numbers and perform amazing deeds in the name of Jesus.
The resurrection of Jesus Christ changes everything! From that Easter Day long ago, human hearts and lives have been transformed with God’s grace. Our fears fall away in the face of the Risen Lord. May this glorious hope renew us today!
The readings today recount two different women accused of adultery who encounter God’s justice and mercy. As we confront evil and sin in our lives, may we strive to follow the Lord.
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