(Optional Memorial for Saint Angela Merici, Virgin)
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| “Christians Persecuted” by Eugene Thirion, c. 1870’s |
Commentary:
Reading 1: Hebrews 10:32-39
Commentary on Heb 10:32-39
Hebrews continues instructing the faithful in the practical aspects of living the faith they have been given. The author calls on the readers to recall a time of great trial following their baptism into Christ (enlightenment in this context refers to baptism rather than just hearing the Gospel). The author refers to a persecution that was endured and now calls them to persevere. The Hebrew Scriptures are quoted to support the injunction to remain steadfast, starting with a brief introduction from Isaiah 26:20 “after just a brief moment” and continues with support from Habakkuk 2:3-4. (Note the Pauline usage of Hebrews 2:4 in Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11.[4])
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 37:3-4, 5-6, 23-24, 39-40
R. (39a) The salvation of the just comes from the Lord.
Commentary on Ps 37:3-4, 5-6, 23-24, 39-40
Psalm 37 is a lament containing the plea to be faithful to God, and remain steadfast in the time of adversity. The psalmist sings that the faith of the people will bring them salvation, and that the Lord is faithful and intercedes for them against the wicked. Salvation comes from the Lord alone is the common message.
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Gospel: Mark 4:26-34
Commentary on Mk 4:26-34
We are given two parables from the Gospel of St. Mark. The first is unique to Mark’s Gospel, and follows the parable of the Sower in Mark 4:1-9. The mystery of the seed is analogous to Jesus’ own ministry which starts as a seed but grows to encompass the world. Another frequent analogy follows: the seed, apparently dying, falling to the earth and buried, then rising to new life -the great Paschal Mystery.
The second parable, the parable of the Mustard Seed, echoes the vision of the Kingdom of God described in Ezekiel 17:23; Ezekiel 31:6, with the image of the Kingdom of God providing a resting place for all, just as the giant cedars of Lebanon do for the birds.
CCC: Mk 4:33-34 546
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Reflection:
If we look to the leaders of the Church to be responsible for evangelizing the world, and excuse ourselves because “it’s not our job, and we’re too busy,” we have missed the point of the Lord’s call completely. If that was our attitude, when the Word of God first came to us we should have covered our ears and started mumbling nonsense words like a child. Everyone who hears the Word of God and listens to it is handed grace which must be passed on to have its potential realized.
Does that mean that we are called to stand on street corners calling out to passersby to repent and turn to the Gospel? In most cases no, although there are some who feel compelled to do just that. We are, however, required to live our faith as best we can. That means applying the values we profess to believe in. Minimally it means loving God and neighbor, and even that is difficult at times for many.
The parables of the mustard seed and the sower are of critical importance to us. They tell us that we do not come to the faith simply to have it give us comfort or consolation (although it does). The parables tell us that the treasure contained in the Word of God must not be taken to our hearts like a comfort pillow, and hugged closely, never to be released (although at times we certainly need to treat our faith just that way).
Jesus makes it clear that what we are given is to be shared. Our very lives are a gift from God; how can we be so selfish as to think only that this word of salvation should be kept like some secret. No, our actions, all of our actions, should proclaim God’s praise. And when we complete our day’s tasks, and reflect back on what we have accomplished, we must ask ourselves if what we accomplished did what God would have intended.
As we have said before, the beauty of the parables of the sower and the mustard seed is that we are both the seed and the sower. These images compel us move forward with our faith, not passively accept what God sends to us. We are called to be active participants in God’s Kingdom on earth; there will be time enough for rest in the Kingdom of Heaven
Pax
[1] The picture is “Christians Persecuted” by Eugene Thirion, c. 1870’s
[4] See NAB footnote on Hebrews 10:37-38
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