7th Week, Thursday, Feb 27; Sirach 5:1-8
Turn to the Lord; Don't put it off!
We sometimes hear people say, "There's plenty of time to do that tomorrow. After all, what's another day?" A day doesn't seem to be much until you realize how much happens each day. Take a few examples from Tom Parker's book, In One Day. Each day in the United States:
13,000 people get married, 87,000 people wreck their car, 180,000 people move to a different home, 20,000 people write to the president, 11,000 people get bitten by a dog.
One day may not seem to be much, but the facts prove otherwise. That's also the point of today's reading: Don't put off your conversion to the Lord "from day to day." Too much is at stake.
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Why do we tend to procrastinate, especially when it comes to spiritual matters?
"Time is what we want most, but what alas! we use worst." William Penn
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Introduction
Year I. While the Bible speaks constantly of forgiveness, it always keeps condemning presumption, whether in one’s own strength or possessions, or in the very patience of God with sinners. It is the people aware of their weakness who attract God’s pardon. This is Ben Sirach’s lesson today.
Gospel. In a series of not-too-well-connected words of the Lord to his disciples, we notice for example, how Jesus shows concern for the “little ones,” that is, ordinary Christians not too well versed in doctrinal matters, who are at times confused by the more learned. With James and the Lord, we too should be concerned about the little people, the humble, ordinary Christians.
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Opening Prayer
Lord God, our Father, Jesus your Son showed special concern for the weak and the humble. Help us too never to become overbearing or condescending towards the little people. Do not allow us to confuse them with self-conscious, learned words. And gave us a faith that is informed, yet simple and trusting. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord.
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Mark 9:41-50: Salt Your Life with Love and Peace
Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth, to bring flavour, joy, and meaning to the lives of others through love and service. When we work for God, we receive more than we can imagine. Every small act of kindness—a visit to the sick, a word of encouragement, or a meal shared with those in need—warms not only the hearts of others but our own as well. No act of love is wasted; God observes and rewards every gesture of kindness.
At the same time, Jesus warns us against being a source of scandal. In today’s world, we are painfully aware of the challenges and wounds within the Church. Yet, just as every family has struggles, so does our spiritual family. Instead of becoming indifferent or discouraged, we must respond with prayer, humility, and a commitment to live with integrity. Scandals arise not just from public failings but from the contradictions in our own lives—when our actions do not reflect the faith we profess. Let us seek God’s forgiveness for the times we have caused harm and pray for the healing and holiness of the Church.
Ultimately, the Gospel invites us to seek peace, a peace that comes from living with purpose and authenticity. True peace is found when our lives are filled with the "flavour" of Christ’s love. Let us ask ourselves: Does the way I live bring peace to my heart and to those around me? If the answer is yes, then you are walking the road to holiness.
Lord, help us to be salt for the world, bringing love where there is hurt, and peace where there is division. May our lives reflect Your goodness. Amen!
