📖 Readings for September 23, 2025
Memorial of Saint Pius of Pietrelcina, Priest
First Reading: Ezra 6:7-8, 12b, 14-20
King Darius issued an order to the officials of West-of-Euphrates: “Let the governor and the elders of the Jews continue the work on that house of God; they are to rebuild it on its former site.
I also issue this decree concerning your dealing with these elders of the Jews in the rebuilding of this house of God; From the royal revenue, the taxes of West-of-Euphrates, let these men be repaid for their expenses, in full and without delay.
Finally, they set up the priests in their classes and the Levites in their divisions for the service of God in Jerusalem, as prescribed in the book of Moses.
The children of Israel … celebrated the dedication of this house of God with joy. … they offered … bulls, rams, lambs … kept the Passover … purified themselves …” Catholic Gallery+1
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5
R. Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.
I rejoiced because they said to me: “We shall go into the house of the LORD.”
Our feet are standing within your gates, O Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, built as a city compact together. Catholic Gallery+2Awit at Papuri+2
Gospel: Luke 8:19-21
Then his mother and his brothers came to him, but they could not reach him because of the crowd. He was told, “Your mother and your brothers are standing outside desiring to see you.” But he said to them in reply,
“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.” Catholic Gallery+1
Reflection: Hearing + Doing = True Belonging
I. Introduction
Today we remember Saint Pio of Pietrelcina, whose life was rooted in deep faith, prayer, and service. As Priest, he ministered to the suffering, often through acts that spoke louder than words. Today’s readings call us to consider what it really means to belong to God—not by birth or privilege, but by how we respond to His Word.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
In Luke 8:19-21, Jesus is told that His mother and brothers wish to see Him, but He redefines who His family is: not just those connected by blood, but those who hear God’s Word and do it. His message reverses the common view of relationship and identity: belonging to Jesus depends on obedience and action more than external ties.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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The reading from Ezra shows people restoring the temple, offering sacrifice, dedicating themselves to God’s house with humility and joy—working to rebuild what was broken. Catholic Gallery+1
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The Psalm expresses longing and joy to be in the presence of God, in the house of the Lord—a heart that desires God and worship over everything else. Catholic Gallery+1
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Belonging to God, according to Jesus, is not inherited; it is chosen, lived, and embodied through Word and action.
IV. Reflections
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Hearing alone is not enough; hearing must lead to doing. If there’s no action, the Word remains just information, not transformation.
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True belonging to God is inclusive but demanding. It invites us beyond comfort zones—family, culture, expectations—into discipleship.
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Humility is required: humbling ourselves to let God’s Word shape our decisions, habits, relationships. Saint Pio serves as an example—he didn’t just listen, he ministered to suffering with compassion.
Quote for Emphasis:
“Faith is like a lamp, not meant to be covered but to shed light.” — Unknown
V. Practical Applications
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Examine one area of your life where you hear God’s Word but haven’t acted. Pray for courage to do what is asked.
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Let your decisions reflect your faith. Small acts—kindness, forgiveness, justice—show you belong to Him.
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Serve people beyond your circle: reach out to someone in need without expecting anything in return.
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Model your belonging to God in community—in church, family, neighborhood—by being someone who listens AND does.
VI. Conclusion
Belonging to Jesus is not about external affiliation but about internal transformation. Hearing God’s Word is a privilege; doing it is our response. In humility, let us listen deeply and act faithfully so that we may truly be part of God’s family, a family defined by love, obedience, and service.
Verse of the Day
“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and do it.” — Luke 8:21
Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Your Word today, calling me into true belonging. Help me to not only hear but to act. Give me ears that listen, a heart that obeys, and hands that serve. May my faith be visible in love, compassion, and justice. Give me the humility to follow You over all else. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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