Catholic Mass Readings and Reflection December 14, 2024
Second Week of Advent
14th December 2024 (Saturday)
Psalter: Week 2
Readings of the Day
First Reading: Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11b
In those days: The prophet Elijah arose like a fire, and his word burned like a torch. He brought a famine upon them, and by his zeal he made them few in number. By the word of the Lord he shut up the heavens, and also three times brought down fire. How glorious you were, O Elijah, in your wondrous deeds! And who has the right to boast that which you have? You who were taken up by a whirlwind of fire in a chariot with horses of fire; you who are ready at the appointed time, it is written, to calm the wrath of God before it breaks out in fury, to turn the heart of the father to the son, and to restore the tribes of Jacob. Blessed are those who saw you and those who have been fallen asleep in love.
Psalm 80:2ac & 3b, 15-16a, 18-19 (R. 4)
R/. O God, bring us back; let your face shine on us, and we shall be saved
Gospel Acclamation
V/. Alleluia
R/. Alleluia
V/. Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight and all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
R/. Alleluia.
Gospel: Matthew 17:10-13
As they were coming down the mountain, the disciples asked Jesus, “Then why do the scribes say that first Elijah must come?” He answered, “Elijah does come, and he will restore all things. But I tell you that Elijah has already come, and they did not recognize him, but did to him whatever they pleased. So also the Son of Man will certainly suffer at their hands.” Then the disciples understood that he was speaking to them of John the Baptist.
Daily Gospel Reflection
Saturday – Second Week of Advent
Guidelines: Those who love God and are loyal to Him, will be on fire. They live for God and do His will passionately and resolutely come what may
1. Prophet Elijah was an outstanding figure in the Old Testament. He performed wondrous deeds. He enjoys a glorious name and reverence in Israel. But apart from these factors, what makes him commendable is his passion for God and his focus on his mission. He would contest with the followers of false gods and defeat them. And he would turn back the wavering and strayed people to Yahweh, the true God.
2. Thus, his mission was precisely one of restoration. That is, restoring the lost relationship within the community, and with God. In the New Testament, John the Baptist would resemble Elijah, in his passion for God, and fierce defence of God’s ways. Nothing and no one would intimidate him or deter his commitment to his mission.
3. John the Baptist was convinced and courageous to correct the wrong and restore the original sanctity and fidelity. But sadly, the people could not stomach his truthfulness. Their hypocrisy and shallow spirituality would not appreciate and support his authenticity and depth of spirituality.
4. That is why they did to him whatever they pleased and did away with him. The fate of Jesus too was no different. His integrity of living and zeal for God would challenge and expose the shallowness of their religion and spirituality. Therefore, they would also do away with Jesus as they do with John the Baptist.
Practice: A genuine seeker of truth would not hide his false layers. He would never suppress truth and adherents of truth. He would not succumb to the pressure of falsity. For what matters the most for him is fidelity to the Lord
