Today, July 24, 2025, as we remember Saint Sharbel Makhlūf, a Lebanese Maronite priest and hermit known for his deep spirituality, our readi...
Today, July 24, 2025, as we remember Saint Sharbel Makhlūf, a Lebanese Maronite priest and hermit known for his deep spirituality, our readings invite us to reflect on three profound themes: Covenant, Clarity, and Contemplation.
The First Reading from Exodus recounts the awe-inspiring moment of God establishing His covenant with Israel at Mount Sinai. Amidst thunder, lightning, and a thick cloud, God speaks to Moses, inviting His people into a sacred bond. This divine initiative underscores God's desire for a relationship with humanity, a relationship built on His faithfulness and our obedience. The covenant is a testament to God's enduring love and His commitment to guide and protect His people. For us today, it reminds us of the New Covenant established through Christ's sacrifice, inviting us into an even deeper, more personal relationship with our Creator.
The Gospel from Matthew speaks of clarity, or rather, the lack thereof for some, and the blessing of it for others. Jesus explains to His disciples why He speaks in parables, stating that to those who have, more will be given, and from those who have not, even what they have will be taken away. He then blesses His disciples for their eyes that "see" and ears that "hear," because they have been given the grace to understand the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven. This highlights that true clarity comes not merely from intellectual understanding, but from a receptive heart open to divine revelation. It's a gift of grace that allows us to perceive God's truth beyond surface appearances.
Finally, the life of Saint Sharbel Makhlūf powerfully embodies the theme of contemplation. A hermit who lived a life of extreme austerity and prayer in the mountains of Lebanon, Saint Sharbel dedicated himself entirely to God. His days were spent in profound contemplation, listening to God's voice, and allowing the divine presence to transform him. His life teaches us the immense value of silence, solitude, and deep communion with God as a path to spiritual growth and profound understanding. Just as the Israelites experienced God's presence on Sinai, and the disciples received clarity on Jesus' words, Saint Sharbel sought God through unwavering contemplation.
As we go about our day, let us remember God's unwavering covenant with us, seek the clarity that comes from a humble and open heart, and make time for contemplation to deepen our relationship with Him, following the inspiring example of Saint Sharbel Makhlūf.
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