For the next three weeks we will be reading from the Sermon on the Mount in chapters 5-7 of Matthew’s Gospel. Today we begin with the Beatitudes, and it begs a question: how do we recognize God’s blessings in our lives?
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.
At every Mass the bread and wine become the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ, what we call the Real Presence. In his teaching to the disciples, the Lord defines and commands us to receive him in Holy Communion. In light of the past year with the pandemic, we have discovered just how crucial it is for us to carry out this command of Christ.
The Book of Tobit, Part V – In the final installment, we see the revelation of the angel Raphael who urges Tobit and Tobiah to give unceasing praise to God.
Mary’s “Magnificat” follows from her visit to Elizabeth and greeting between two babies from the womb. For all of you who have a special devotion to the Rosary, happy feast day!
Catholic Inspiration – Podcast Archives of Homilies & Talks
Three Great Things 