Today's Readings – September 6, 2025
First Reading
Colossians 1:21–23
You once were estranged and hostile in mind because of evil deeds; God has now reconciled you in the body of Christ through his death, to present you holy, without blemish, and irreproachable before him—provided you continue in the faith, firmly grounded, stable, and not shifting from the hope of the Gospel that you have heard, which has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, of which I, Paul, became a minister.
USCCBCatholic Online
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 54:3–4, 6, 8
Response: God himself is my help.
O God, by your name save me, and by your might defend my cause.
O God, hear my prayer; heed the words of my mouth.
Behold, God is my helper; the Lord sustains my life.
I will freely offer you sacrifice; I will praise your name, O Lord, for its goodness.
USCCB
Alleluia
John 14:6
Alleluia, alleluia.
I am the way and the truth and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father except through me.
USCCB
Gospel
Luke 6:1–5
One Sabbath, as Jesus was going through the grainfields, his disciples plucked and ate some heads of grain, rubbing them in their hands.
But some of the Pharisees said, “Why are you doing what is not lawful on the Sabbath?”
Jesus replied, “Have you not read what David did when he and his companions were hungry?
How he entered the house of God and ate the bread of the Presence—which only the priests are allowed to eat—and gave some to his companions?”
Then he said to them, “The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.”
USCCBVatican News
Reflection: Reconciled, Grounded, and Lord of Our Sabbath
Verse of the Day
“God has reconciled you in his body of flesh through death, to present you holy, without blemish…” — Colossians 1:22
I. Introduction
Today’s readings guide us through themes of reconciliation, steadiness in faith, and the true meaning of Sabbath rest. We are invited to ponder how Christ’s reconciling work re-grounds us and gives us authority over our rhythm of rest and worship.
II. The Gospel Passage and Its Context
The disciples, hungry on the Sabbath, pluck grain, inciting criticism from the Pharisees. Jesus answers by recalling David’s precedence and concludes with a powerful declaration: “The Son of Man is lord of the Sabbath.” He reminds us that Sabbath observance should serve human need and grace, not legalism.
III. Broader Scriptural Resonance on Humility
Colossians 1:21–23 highlights our former alienation and Christ’s reconciling love—calling us to steadfast faith and hope that doesn’t waver.
Psalm 54 models humble reliance on God as our protector and sustainer.
Jesus asserting authority over the Sabbath reveals the humility of truth—subtly affirming His divine identity while prioritizing mercy over rigid observance.
IV. Reflections
Christ brings reconciliation: We were once estranged but are now welcomed holy and steadfast through Christ’s death.
True rest honors humanity: Jesus teaches that Sabbath is meant for life—merciful, compassionate, and human—not burdened by cold rule-following.
Steady faith arises from grace: Maintaining spiritual firmness is rooted not in our own merit but in God’s reconciling act through Christ.
Quote for Emphasis:
“Sabbath is not just about ceasing activity—it’s about creating space to recognize God’s rest within us and among us.”
— Marva J. Dawn
V. Practical Applications
Embrace Christ’s reconciliation—start your day acknowledging that you are made holy by grace, not by performance.
Redefine rest—let your Sabbath (or weekly pause) be shaped by mercy and refreshment, not ritual compliance.
Ground your faith—hold firmly to the hope of the Gospel through prayer, community, and reading of God’s Word.
Depend on divine help—when overwhelmed, like the psalm, turn to God as your helper and praise Him for His goodness.
VI. Conclusion
We are called into a reconciled life—made holy, stable, and hopeful through Christ. Just as Jesus reclaims the Sabbath for humane rest and compassionate mercy, so He offers us rest rooted in His grace. May we live reconciled, grounded, and guided by the Lord of our Sabbath.
Prayer for the Reader
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for reconciling us through the flesh of Christ and calling us holy and steadfast. Teach us to honor our rest not as obligation, but as gift—filled with mercy and refreshment. Help us remain rooted in the hope of the Gospel, unwavering in faith, and tender in grace. May we recognize Christ as Lord of our Sabbath, our lives, and our peace. Through Him, with You, in the unity of the Holy Spirit—one God, now and forever. Amen.
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