Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, today, as we gather on this beautiful Sunday, we reflect on the profound and rich readings from the Book of Wisdom, the Letter to the Hebrews, and the Gospel of Mark. These texts invite us into a deeper understanding of true wisdom, the urgency of discerning our values, and the unconditional love of God that calls us to a radical discipleship, something our Blessed Mother in Fatima asked us to truly embrace. Today we mark the anniversary of that powerful apparition.
The first reading from Wisdom reminds us that wisdom is more precious than any earthly possession. The author of Wisdom speaks of a prayer where prudence was granted, and with it, the insight to recognize that earthly riches are, at best, like sand in comparison to the treasures of wisdom. This wisdom transcends all our human cravings; it is about seeking the divine truth that leads us to God.
In the Gospel, we encounter a man who seeks eternal life, only to discover that he must detach from his wealth to truly follow Christ. It is a poignant moment—one that leaves him sad because he had many possessions. Jesus tells us how hard it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God, using the striking analogy of a camel passing through the eye of a needle. This moment resonates, especially in light of our consumer-driven society where possessions often weigh us down, blinding us from the deeper treasures of faith and love.But we must not despair, for human salvation, as Jesus reminds us, is impossible by our own means but is made possible by God.
This brings us to the message that is exemplified in the apparitions of Fatima, especially as we commemorate the miraculous events of October 13, 1917.
At Fatima, Mary called upon the world to turn back to God through prayer, penance, and conversion. Her message urges us to seek true wisdom, prioritizing our spiritual richness over material wealth.
On this date, we are reminded of the miraculous "Dance of the Sun," which captivated thousands and served as a divine sign affirming the authenticity of the messages given to the children of Fatima. In a world beset by darkness, confusion, and moral decay, Mary's calls for prayer and conversion echo the sentiments of today's readings. She invites us to seek wisdom, to discern our values, and to live lives of radical love and generosity.
We can also draw a connection to the life of Pope Saint John Paul II, who was deeply influenced by the messages of Fatima. On May 13, 1981, he survived an assassination attempt. This was the anniversary of the first apparition of our Lady of Fatima in 1917. Through this profound event, he recognized the protective role that Our Lady played in the life of the Church and in his leadership. The Pope declared that "it was a mother’s hand that guided the bullet’s path," emphasizing how the intercession of Mary can yield miraculous outcomes. Just as the man in today’s Gospel was called to relinquish his possessions, John Paul II devoted his life to sharing the Gospel, encouraging the faithful to trust in the providence of God.
In our modern lives, we too face the challenge of materialism and disconnection from spiritual values. The wisdom implored by the author of Scripture and the directives given by Our Lady at Fatima intertwine beautifully; the call to return to God through authentic faith encourages us to live simply and love generously. Each of us is invited to examine what holds us back from God. What are we clinging to that prevents us from fully embracing our faith or serving others?
Dear friends, let us pray for the grace of wisdom in our lives—for the prudence to discern what is of true value. As we remember the apparitions at Fatima and the sacrifices of those like John Paul II, may we be inspired to live lives marked by faith, hope, and love. Let us ask Our Lady of Fatima to intercede for us, that we may truly choose the treasure of heaven over the fading riches of this earth.
Amen.
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