Here are the Scripture readings from the U.S. Catholic bishops website.
My own weekly study on the Sunday Readings can be found here.
Here are four short audio reflections on the readings by Sister Ann Shields, Dr. Scott Hahn, Fr. Robert Barron, and Dr. Michael Barber.
Here are two Catholic Bible study podcasts (each about an hour long):
--St. Martha's Adult Faith Formation.
--Franciscan Sisters of the Sorrowful Mother
The Navarre Bible Commentary for each reading can be viewed here.
Further study resources for the Readings: St. Charles Borromeo Bible Study can be found here, and Catholic Matters can be found here.
Please consider supporting those who provide these free resources.
Discussion, questions and charitable comments are always welcome. Have a blessed week!
I want to share my learning and inspired thoughts on to-day's readings.
ReplyDeleteThe first reading explains beautifully and clearly that wisdom is able to identify her genuine seekers.
The gospel reading provides a parabolic imagery of the imminent end that awaits the 'foolish' and the 'wise'.
Virginity symbolises a sinless state needed for entering Heaven. We are expected to be vigilant and and maintain
a worthy state always as we don't know when the hour will arrive. Though this is a humanly impossible task it is
made possible to those who depend on God. The foolish virgins represent the self-willed and puritanical pharisees
who believe they are pure because they observe the law and are unaware of their sins w.r.t 'justice, mercy and the love of God'.
The wise virgins represent humble sinners like the publican who 'fear God'. Fear of God is the beginning of wisdom
that slowly but steadily transforms the sinner into a righteous child of God. The vigil needed to avoid sin is supplied by
wisdom which comes from the 'fear of God'.
I also recommend you to read how St. Louis of Granada has explained this parable in his book - SINNER'S GUIDE.
@ Anonymous- Thank you for sharing your insightful comments on the Gospel reading and for the book recommendation. St. Louis' spiritual masterpiece deserves to be more well known by modern Christians.
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