In the first reading, James encourages us to trust in God’s steadfast love and providence. He also teaches us about wisdom, which God gives generously and without reproach to those who ask him. He says that we should not be double-minded or unstable like the waves of the sea, but have a single-minded intimacy with God and faithful conduct. He compares those who have shallow faith to dry grass that withers in the scorching heat, while those who trust in the Lord are like flowers that bloom every morning and stay green in all seasons.
The gospel reading shows us the faith that we have in the Son of Man and how the Pharisees ask for signs from Jesus to test him. Jesus responds firmly that no sign will be given to this generation.
I often doubt, like the Pharisees, and wonder if Jesus is listening to my daily prayers and the events of the day. I forget that he is the Lord of everything. I fail to reason things out, lack the wisdom to understand God’s plan for my life, and ask for clear signs to work wonders in life. The readings invite us to strengthen our faith and ask for wisdom to comprehend the plan and mystery of God that he will reveal to us.
By John Desing csc - Readings: Jas 1: 1-11; Mk 8: 11-13 In the first reading, St. James clearly says that if you ask anything to God in faith, it will be granted. But in our practical life, it does not happen that way. We ask God for various needs,…
Eldho Augustine csc - Readings: Is 50: 5-9a; Jas 2: 14-18; Mk 8: 27-35 In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah describes the suffering servant. Suffering can be a part of our journey with God, and it is through suffering that we can grow closer to him. In the gospel,…
Jessel Pradeep Cutinha csc - Jas 4: 1-10; Mk 9: 30-37 St. James, in the first reading, cautions us to prioritize God as our sole object and master, rather than being overly attached to the things of this world. He paints a vivid picture of people who approach God with…
By John Desing csc - Readings: Jas 1: 1-11; Mk 8: 11-13 In the first reading, St. James clearly says that if you ask anything to God in faith, it will be granted. But in our practical life, it does not happen that way. We ask God for various needs,…
Eldho Augustine csc - Readings: Is 50: 5-9a; Jas 2: 14-18; Mk 8: 27-35 In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah describes the suffering servant. Suffering can be a part of our journey with God, and it is through suffering that we can grow closer to him. In the gospel,…
Jessel Pradeep Cutinha csc - Jas 4: 1-10; Mk 9: 30-37 St. James, in the first reading, cautions us to prioritize God as our sole object and master, rather than being overly attached to the things of this world. He paints a vivid picture of people who approach God with…
