Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 19: 8, 9, 10, 11
Alleluia: Colossians 3: 16a, 17c
Gospel: Mark 11: 27-33
First Reading: Sirach 51: 12cd-20
12cd Therefore I will give thanks, and praise thee, and bless the name of the Lord.
13 When I was yet young, before I wandered about, I sought for wisdom openly in my prayer.
14 I prayed for her before the temple, and unto the very end I will seek after her, and she flourished as a grape soon ripe.
15 My heart delighted in her, my foot walked in the right way, from my youth up I sought after her.
16 I bowed down my ear a little, and received her.
17 I found much wisdom in myself, and I profited much therein. To him that giveth me wisdom, will I give glory.
18 For I have determined to follow her: I have had a zeal for good, and shall not be confounded.
19 My soul hath wrestled for her, and in doing it I have been confirmed. I stretched forth my hands on high, and I bewailed my ignorance of her.
20 I directed my soul to her, and in knowledge I found her. I possessed my heart with her from the beginning: therefore I shall not be forsaken.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 19: 8, 9, 10, 11
R. (9ab) The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.
8 The law of the Lord is unspotted, converting souls: the testimony of the Lord is faithful, giving wisdom to little ones.
R. The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.
9 The justices of the Lord are right, rejoicing hearts: the commandment of the Lord is lightsome, enlightening the eyes.
R. The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.
10 The fear of the Lord is holy, enduring for ever and ever: the judgments of the Lord are true, justified in themselves.
R. The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.
11 More to be desired than gold and many precious stones: and sweeter than honey and the honeycomb.
R. The precepts of the Lord give joy to the heart.
Alleluia: Colossians 3: 16a, 17c
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
16a, 17c Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; giving thanks to God the Father through him.
R. Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel: Mark 11: 27-33
27 And they come again to Jerusalem. And when he was walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests and the scribes and the ancients,
28 And they say to him: By what authority dost thou these things? and who hath given thee this authority that thou shouldst do these things?
29 And Jesus answering, said to them: I will also ask you one word, and answer you me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things.
30 The baptism of John, was it from heaven, or from men? Answer me.
31 But they thought with themselves, saying: If we say, From heaven; he will say, Why then did you not believe him?
32 If we say, From men, we fear the people. For all men counted John that he was a prophet indeed.
33 And they answering, say to Jesus: We know not. And Jesus answering, saith to them: Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things.
Reflection
Wisdom is given to those who genuinely seek it. The first reading describes a heart that pursues wisdom in prayer, listens humbly, perseveres through struggle, and gives glory to God for what it receives. The psalm echoes this discovery: the Lord’s precepts enlighten the eyes, rejoice the heart, and become more desirable than wealth or sweetness. God’s word is not a burden placed upon us from outside; welcomed with faith, it brings clarity and joy.
In the Gospel, the religious leaders ask Jesus about his authority, yet their question is shaped by calculation rather than a desire for truth. They are concerned about the consequences of every possible answer, so they retreat behind, “We do not know.” Their refusal to receive John’s witness leaves them closed to recognizing the authority of Christ himself. We can also approach God’s word with guarded questions when it challenges our preferred answers. The honest seeker prays, listens, and allows the truth to change him. When Christ’s word dwells richly in us, wisdom becomes a way of life: humble before God, courageous in goodness, and ready to give thanks.
Prayer
Lord God, giver of wisdom, teach me to seek your truth with an undivided heart. Free me from the fear, pride, and self-protection that keep me from listening. Open my mind to the word of Christ and my heart to the witness you place before me. Help me recognize your authority, even when your commands challenge my habits or desires. Give me patience to persevere in prayer, courage to follow what is good, and humility to give you glory for every light I receive. May your precepts bring joy to my heart and guide my life. Amen.
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