The Catholic Calendar for Tuesday, January 23, 2001
Third Week in Ordinary Time
Scripture from today's Liturgy of the Word:
Hebrews 10:1-10
Psalm 40:2,4,7-8,10-11
Mark 3:31-35
Full text: http://www.nccbuscc.org/nab/index.htm
A Reflection on Today's Scripture:
The entire epistle to the Hebrews establishes the priesthood of Jesus
Christ. In Jesus' lifetime on earth, people did not associate him
with priesthood--more often than not, Jesus was seen more as a lay
preacher, keeping his distance from the ruling theocracy, and often
critical of them. His priesthood is foreshadowed many times as he
prophesies his giving of His own body and blood as sacrifice and as
food. It becomes explicit at the Last Supper when he assumes full
priestly role, anticipating the bloody sacrifice on the Cross of
which He is both priest and victim.
Where lies the difference in the new sacrificial act?
In the words, "I have come to do your will, O God", which show that
submission to God's will is the essential disposition for all who
would share in Christ's sacrifice. That means not only those ordained
by the laying on of hands, but also those whose "priesthood of the
laity" comes through their Baptism. At every Holy Mass, there is the
challenge, that if we would be Christ's followers, we must take up
our cross daily and follow Him. God has said it so clearly in that He
desires obedience not sacrifice (meaning of blood and goats).
Lord, may I both accept and follow your Will in all things.
- Msgr. Paul Whitmore ([EMAIL PROTECTED])
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