Note: These are the readings for “Year C” in the Lectionary for Mass. On the 3rd, 4th and 5th Sundays of Lent, parishes may use the “Year A” readings at Masses that include members of the RCIA process.
While teaching about the need to repent, Jesus offers a parable that challenges us to cultivate a fruitful life. Where do we get the courage to do this? We recognize that Christ is the master gardener who lovingly tends to the care of our souls!
The Lord reveals in the Gospel of Matthew how he takes on the services we render to the suffering and marginalized as being done to him. May we take the lesson to heart as we offer our lives to help others today.
Here are some of the themes in the readings for the 7th Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Samuel 26:2,7-9,12-13,22-23
While trying to kill David, Saul is asleep and unattended when David comes upon him.
David spares Saul’s life, offering clear proof of his mercy.
Psalm – 103:1-4,8,10,12-13
“The Lord is kind and merciful.”
God, who is merciful and gracious, has compassion on us and pardons all our sins.
2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 15:45-49
Paul contrasts the first man, Adam, with Jesus (the last Adam) to highlight the natural and the spiritual.
By becoming like us, Christ unites our nature to his and restores what was lost by sin.
Gospel – Luke 6:27-38
The “Golden Rule” (Do to others as you would have them do to you) is highlighted in this passage in a number of ways: love one’s enemies, share or lend with those in need, stop judging, forgive one another.
“For the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.”
While being hunted by Saul, David prevents his men from harming the king in a cave. His restraint offers us a powerful example of how we repay evil with good.
We learn more about Abraham’s faith in the Letter to the Romans, inspired to search our hearts for any obstacles that are keeping us from Christ. May we cast these stumbling blocks to the foot of the Cross!
Three Great Things 