Today's readings:

1. First reading: Ezekiel 16:59-63
2. Gospel: Matthew 19:3-12

Today we are reminded of God’s covenantal love and the sanctity of marriage. The reading from Ezekiel is a vivid portrayal of God’s relationship with Israel, depicted as a husband who cares for, adorns, and loves his wife despite her unfaithfulness. The passage emphasizes God’s mercy and His willingness to forgive and renew the covenant despite Israel's infidelity.

In the Gospel, Jesus reaffirms the sanctity of marriage, teaching that from the beginning, marriage was meant to be a lifelong union. His response to the Pharisees challenges the practices of his time, calling for a return to the original intent of marriage as a permanent and sacred bond. Jesus’ words also acknowledge the difficulty of this teaching, noting that the call to lifelong commitment and even celibacy for the sake of the kingdom is a special vocation, one that not everyone can accept but is embraced by those to whom it is given.

Saint Stephen of Hungary, whose optional memorial is celebrated today, exemplified a life of faithfulness to God’s covenant. As the first king of Hungary, he worked to establish Christianity in his kingdom, embodying the principles of justice, mercy, and devotion to God.

Today's readings and the example of Saint Stephen of Hungary encourage us to honor our commitments, particularly in marriage, and to trust in God’s mercy and covenantal love. They remind us that God’s grace is available to help us live out these challenging teachings, whether in marriage or in a life dedicated to the kingdom.

Today's readings:

1. First reading: Revelation 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab
2. Second Reading: Corinthians 15:20-27
3. Gospel: Luke 1:39-56

Today we celebrate the belief that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was assumed body and soul into heavenly glory. This feast reflects the culmination of Mary's life of faith and her unique role in salvation history as the mother of Jesus.

The first reading from Revelation presents a powerful and symbolic vision of a woman clothed with the sun, representing both Mary and the Church, and her victory over the forces of evil, symbolized by the dragon. This passage highlights the cosmic significance of Mary’s role and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

In the second reading, Saint Paul reminds us that Christ's resurrection is the first fruits of those who have died, and through Him, all who belong to Him will be made alive. Mary, who was without sin and fully united with her Son, shares in His victory over death in a unique way, being assumed into heaven.

The Gospel from Luke recounts Mary's visit to Elizabeth and her Magnificat, a song of praise to God for His greatness and mercy. Mary’s humility, faith, and total devotion to God's will are exemplified in this passage, making her a model for all believers.

As we celebrate the Assumption, we are called to reflect on Mary's life of faith and her complete trust in God's plan. Her Assumption is a sign of hope for all of us, pointing to the promise of eternal life and the resurrection of the body. Mary’s life and Assumption remind us to live with our eyes fixed on heaven, trusting in God's promises and following her example of humble service and unwavering faith.

Today's readings:

1. First reading:
2. Gospel:

Today we honor a priest who gave his life for another in the horrors of Auschwitz, reflecting the ultimate act of love and sacrifice. The readings of the day call us to reflect on justice, mercy, and reconciliation.

In the first reading from Ezekiel, we see a vivid and sobering vision of judgment upon the city of Jerusalem. God commands a mark to be placed on those who mourn over the sins of the city, sparing them from destruction. This passage emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the holiness of God, who is just in His judgments, yet merciful to those who are faithful to Him.

The Gospel from Matthew addresses the importance of reconciliation within the community. Jesus provides a process for addressing sin among members of the Church, emphasizing the need for private correction, the involvement of witnesses, and ultimately, the involvement of the community. The passage underscores the power of prayer and unity, promising that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is present among them.

Saint Maximilian Kolbe's life was a profound testament to this Gospel message. He lived out the call to selfless love, choosing to die in place of another prisoner, an act of ultimate reconciliation and sacrifice. His life reminds us that love and forgiveness are at the heart of Christian life, and that true greatness is found in serving others, even to the point of laying down one's life.