First Reading - Ecclesiasticus 35:2-15
Gospel - Mark 10:28-31
The first reading from Sirach speaks of true sacrifice and devotion to God. It reminds us that God does not measure our offerings by their size but by the sincerity of our hearts. True worship is not about giving out of abundance or obligation but about offering ourselves in love, justice, and humility. The reading assures us that God repays those who serve Him, though His rewards are not always immediate or material.
In the Gospel, Peter, having heard Jesus speak about detachment, asks, “What about us? We have left everything and followed you.” It is a question many of us ask in different ways: Does following Christ really pay off? What do I get in return for my sacrifices? Jesus responds with a promise—anyone who has left behind family, home, or security for His sake will receive a hundredfold in this life, along with persecutions, and eternal life in the world to come.
This promise challenges us to see rewards differently. The blessings Jesus speaks of are not just material but relational and spiritual. The Church becomes our family, and we find deeper joy, peace, and fulfillment in Christ. However, Jesus is also clear that discipleship involves struggle. There will be trials, opposition, and sacrifices, but these do not outweigh the joy of living for God.
True discipleship means trusting in God’s promises, even when we don’t see immediate results. It means seeking Him not for personal gain but out of love. Are we willing to put our faith in God’s plan rather than in what the world offers? Do we trust that His rewards, though not always seen right away, are far greater than anything we could gain on our own?
Let us ask for the grace to remain faithful, knowing that God never forgets our sacrifices. He sees every act of love, every step of faith, and every moment of trust. And in His time, He will reward us with blessings far beyond what we can imagine.
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