The Lord’s kindness is everlasting to those who fear him. — Psalm 103 (see 17)

Mass Readings: Sirach 17:1-15/Mark 10:13-16 

Earthbound, Heaven-bound 

The realization that we’re human is at once humbling and awe-inspiring. Today’s first reading reminds us that we’re both earthbound and heaven-bound. Created from the dust of the earth and destined to return to dust again, we’re closely bound to the earth. Yet, at the same time, the Creator has endowed us with the dignity of bearing His own image, entrusted us with dominion over all creation, and equipped us with the discernment to choose between good and evil. Although we’re earthly creatures with a limited life span, the Creator has entered into an “everlasting covenant” with us and given us “the law of life.”

So although we’re creatures bound to the earth by humble beginnings and the limitations of creature-hood, our final destiny is heaven. We’re gladly, gratefully, and gloriously heaven-bound! 

Prayer: Creator-God, day by day, conform me more closely to the likeness of Your Son.