Let’s explore some of the themes that we discover in the Mass readings for the 32nd Sunday of the Year.
1st Reading – 1st Kings 17:10-16
Elijah goes to Zarephath and he asks a poor widow for water and bread, even though she has only a little bit and after that she and her child will die.
At Elijah’s prompting, she gives him something to eat, and her supplies did not run out but lasted for a year.
Psalm – 146:7-10
“Praise the Lord, my soul!”
The Lord provides justice, nourishment, healing, and protection to those who call upon him.
2nd Reading – Hebrews 9:24-28
Jesus has entered heaven itself and his once-for-all sacrifice continues on our behalf.
When the Lord appears a second time, it will be to bring salvation to those who eagerly await him.
Gospel – Mark 12:38-44
Jesus warns the crowds about the scribes, stating that their love for prestige will lead to a severe condemnation.
The Lord then points out a poor widow whose two small coins in the treasury are more than the rich, not because of the amount of money, but because of the amount of her sacrifice.
When asked to share in his glory, Jesus asks James and John if they can drink from his cup, and then the Lord responds to all the disciples with a teaching that shapes our lives today. Can you drink from the cup of Christ?
We recall the Passion of the Lord in John’s Gospel, giving thanks to God for the saving work of Christ and seeking the grace to face the agonies and sacrifices of our lives.
While Jesus is at dinner at the home of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus, Mary anoints his feet with outrageously expensive perfume. May her lavish gift inspire us to be equally generous as we offer our lives for the Lord.
Three Great Things 