📖 Readings for September 25, 2025
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First Reading: Haggai 1:1-8 USCCB+1
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Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b USCCB+1
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Alleluia: John 14:6 — “I am the way and the truth and the life…” USCCB+1
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Gospel: Luke 9:7-9 USCCB
Gospel Text (Luke 9:7-9)
Herod the tetrarch heard about all that was happening, and he was greatly perplexed because some were saying, “John has been raised from the dead”; others were saying, “Elijah has appeared”; still others, “One of the ancient prophets has arisen.” But Herod said, “John I beheaded. Who then is this about whom I hear such things?” And he kept trying to see him. USCCB
Reflection: The Enigma of Jesus
I. Introduction
We live in a world of voices claiming to know who Jesus is. Herod’s confusion in the Gospel resonates with many today—rumors, speculations, partial truths swirl. The Word today beckons us to confront that question: Who is Jesus for me? In humility, we seek clarity rather than confusion.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
In this passage, Herod is unsettled and curious—some say John, some say Elijah, some say a prophet. But he struggles to grasp Jesus’ identity. He’s trapped by his own actions (he beheaded John) and cannot see Jesus clearly. Jesus remains elusive to those whose hearts are not ready.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
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Haggai 1:1-8 challenges complacency: “Is it time for you to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?” The call is to reconsider priorities—humble inspection of our ways. USCCB+1
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Psalm 149 celebrates God’s delight in His people, especially the lowly, and exalts the faithful in praise. Humility places us in the posture of praise. USCCB+1
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Jesus’ identity cannot be controlled by our expectations or gossip. He is more than speculation, more than a prophet to be categorized—He is the living Word, the way, the truth, the life.
IV. Reflections
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Many reduce Jesus to what they already believe or fear; but He resists being boxed in. Humility allows us to let go of rigid categories and let Him reveal Himself in fresh ways.
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Herod tried to see, but his curiosity was superficial. True seeing requires humility, openness, and a willingness to surrender prior beliefs.
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Sometimes in life we hear many “voices” about Jesus—opinions, experiences, doctrines—but faith asks us: Which voice do we let define Him in our hearts?
Quote for Emphasis:
“Jesus is not a concept to be understood, but a Person to be encountered.” — Anonymous
V. Practical Applications
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Pause and question your images of Jesus—do you cling to preconceived notions? Be open to deeper revelation.
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Let your life speak of Him—through kindness, justice, integrity, let your witness point to the real Jesus, not just an idea.
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Wrestle with doubts humbly—bring your questions, your confusion, your longing, and let Him answer.
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Prioritize spiritual inspection—examine your heart, your priorities, your distractions. Are they keeping you from seeing Christ clearly?
VI. Conclusion
Jesus cannot be contained by rumor, speculation, or superficial curiosity. He must be encountered in humility. As Herod sought to see Him yet remained perplexed, may we instead seek to know Him in faith, not by fitting Him into our categories.
Verse of the Day
“I am the way and the truth and the life; no one comes to the Father except through me.” — John 14:6
Prayer for the Reader
Lord Jesus,
I confess I often try to define You to fit my comfort or expectations. Grant me humility to let go of what I think I know and openness to You as You are. Help me see You not through the world’s eyes but through faith—so I may follow You more truly, love more deeply, and serve more humbly. Amen.
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