Today's Readings – September 10, 2025
First Reading
Colossians 3:1–11
Brothers and sisters: If you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Think of what is above, not of what is on earth… Put to death, then, the parts of you that are earthly: immorality, impurity, passion, evil desire, greed… But now put them all away: anger, fury, malice, slander, obscene language… and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge, in the image of its Creator… USCCB
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 145:2–3, 10–11, 12–13ab
Response: The Lord is compassionate toward all his works.
Every day will I bless you, and I will praise your name forever and ever. Great is the Lord and highly to be praised... Let all your works give you thanks, O Lord, and let your faithful ones bless you... making known to men your might and the glorious splendor of your Kingdom… USCCB
Alleluia
Luke 6:23ab
Alleluia! Rejoice and leap for joy! Your reward will be great in heaven. USCCB
Gospel
Luke 6:20–26
Raising his eyes toward his disciples, Jesus said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. Blessed are you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied... Blessed are you when people hate you… for on that day your reward will be great in heaven... But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.” USCCB
Reflection: Hearts Raised Above
I. Introduction
In these readings, we are called to a radical spiritual orientation: to set our hearts on heavenly realities, to clothe ourselves in virtues, and to embrace Christlike humility—even when it contradicts worldly comfort and praise.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
Jesus pronounces blessings on those experiencing poverty, hunger, mourning, and exclusion—inviting them to rejoice, for their reward in heaven will be great. Conversely, He offers a stark warning to the rich and comfortable who are already receiving their consolation. Discipleship, therefore, involves a humble reordering of our values.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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Colossians 3:1–11 urges us to renounce our old self—the impulses of anger, greed, and division—and to put on the renewed self fashioned in God’s image. USCCB
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Psalm 145 reveals God’s expansive mercy and generosity toward all creation—a model for our own compassionate living. USCCB
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The Alleluia reminds us that reward in heaven awaits those who endure with humility. USCCB
IV. Reflections
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True blessedness often lies in vulnerability. Christ blesses those in need—not out of irony, but because openness to God transforms suffering into glory.
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Transformation demands letting go. Putting off the old self, as Scripture says, isn’t punishment—it’s reclaiming our dignity in Christ.
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Humility is both displacement and empowerment. We are invited to let go of comfort so God can fill us with lasting hope.
Quote for Emphasis:
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself—it is thinking of yourself less.” — C.S. Lewis
This echoes our readings: humility reorients our hearts toward others and toward God, not self-absorption.
V. Practical Applications
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Re-examine your attachments. What comforts or aspirations are getting in the way of humility?
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Cultivate virtues daily. Replace harsh words or judgment with kindness, empathy, and encouragement.
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Bless those overlooked. Reach out to someone in need or someone marginalized—your blessing may become their hope.
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Pray for strength to endure. When trials come, trust that your humility aligns you with Christ and leads to lasting blessing.
VI. Conclusion
Today's readings confront us with the paradox of the Gospel: humility often comes
disguised as hardship. Yet, in learning to raise our hearts toward heaven and clothe ourselves in God's humility, we discover the true riches of discipleship.
Verse of the Day
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek the things that are above… Put to death… the old self… and have put on the new self…” — Colossians 3:1–10
Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
Teach us to set our hearts on heavenly things, not earthly attachments. Help us put to death the old ways of selfishness and anger, and clothe ourselves anew in Your image. Grant us the humility to welcome suffering and rejection for the sake of Your kingdom—knowing our true reward is in You. May we find blessedness in vulnerability and strength in service. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
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