In this final installment of the six-part Lenten series, Carry Your Cross, Fr. Andrew relates Matthew 16:13-28 to Philippians 2:1-11, showing how we follow the example of Christ and “empty ourselves” as we make a life-giving offering to the Lord.
The Letter to the Hebrews reveals how the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ takes away sin, inviting us to call upon the Lord’s grace as we offer our sacrifices in his name.
The sacrifices of the women in 1st Kings and the Gospel of Mark reveal the power of our lives when the intensity and object of our convictions lead us closer to God and one another, pointing out our willingness to follow the example of Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice on the Cross.
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?
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