Returning to His Order
Have you ever been so caught up in routines and expectations that you lost sight of what truly matters? From the very beginning, God established a divine order—an intricate design of creation, rest, and relationship. Yet, throughout history, humanity has struggled with distractions, often replacing God’s wisdom with man-made traditions. Today’s readings invite us to step back and realign ourselves with God’s perfect plan, recognizing His authority over both creation and worship.
In Genesis, we witness the breathtaking account of God forming the world with intention and purpose. He creates mankind in His image, giving us dominion over the earth—not as owners, but as stewards. Psalm 8 echoes this truth, marveling at the honor God has bestowed upon us, despite our smallness in the vastness of creation. However, in The Gospel of Mark, Jesus exposes how human traditions can cloud our understanding of God’s will. The Pharisees, clinging to ritual purity laws, neglect the deeper call to obedience and love. “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me” (Mark 7:6). Their rigid observance of tradition leads them away from the very heart of God.
These passages challenge us to reflect: Are we living in alignment with God’s divine order, or have we allowed human customs, habits, and distractions to take precedence? Whether in creation, worship, or daily life, God calls us to trust in His wisdom above all else. As we explore today’s readings, let us ask Him to reveal the areas where we need to return to His perfect design—one that brings true freedom, purpose, and communion with Him.
First Reading – Genesis 1:20-2:4
Created in His Image: God’s Divine Order
From the very beginning, Genesis reveals a God of order, not chaos—a Creator who speaks life into existence with precision and purpose. In contrast to the myths of ancient cultures, which often depicted creation as an accident or the result of conflict among gods, Genesis presents a singular, all-powerful God who intentionally fashions the world. Today’s passage recounts the final days of creation, culminating in mankind’s formation in God’s image and the institution of the Sabbath. This reading not only reminds us of the inherent dignity of humanity but also challenges us to recognize our responsibility as stewards of creation. Moreover, it connects to today’s Gospel, where Jesus critiques the Pharisees for clinging to human traditions over divine order. Do we truly live in alignment with God’s will, or have we allowed worldly distractions to distort our purpose?
Genesis 1:20-2:4
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
20 Then God said: Let the water teem with an abundance of living creatures, and on the earth let birds fly beneath the dome of the sky. 21 God created the great sea monsters and all kinds of crawling living creatures with which the water teems, and all kinds of winged birds. God saw that it was good, 22 and God blessed them, saying: Be fertile, multiply, and fill the water of the seas; and let the birds multiply on the earth. 23 Evening came, and morning followed—the fifth day.
24 Then God said: Let the earth bring forth every kind of living creature: tame animals, crawling things, and every kind of wild animal. And so it happened: 25 God made every kind of wild animal, every kind of tame animal, and every kind of thing that crawls on the ground. God saw that it was good. 26 Then God said: Let us make human beings in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the tame animals, all the wild animals, and all the creatures that crawl on the earth.
27 God created mankind in his image;
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
28 God blessed them and God said to them: Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that crawl on the earth. 29 God also said: See, I give you every seed-bearing plant on all the earth and every tree that has seed-bearing fruit on it to be your food; 30 and to all the wild animals, all the birds of the air, and all the living creatures that crawl on the earth, I give all the green plants for food. And so it happened. 31 God looked at everything he had made, and found it very good. Evening came, and morning followed—the sixth day.
Chapter 2
1 Thus the heavens and the earth and all their array were completed. 2 On the seventh day God completed the work he had been doing; he rested on the seventh day from all the work he had undertaken. 3 God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work he had done in creation.
The Garden of Eden. 4 This is the story of the heavens and the earth at their creation. When the Lord God made the earth and the heavens—
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 20 – “Then God said: Let the water teem with an abundance of living creatures, and on the earth let birds fly beneath the dome of the sky.”
God’s creative power extends to the waters and the skies, demonstrating His dominion over all realms. This verse also reflects divine generosity—God does not merely create a few creatures but causes the waters to “teem” with life, emphasizing His abundant provision.
Verse 21 – “God created the great sea monsters and all kinds of crawling living creatures with which the water teems, and all kinds of winged birds. God saw that it was good.”
In many ancient cultures, sea monsters symbolized chaos and destruction. Yet, here, they are created by God and deemed “good.” This reminds us that all creation, even that which may seem fearsome, is under His authority and part of His divine plan.
Verse 22 – “And God blessed them, saying: Be fertile, multiply, and fill the water of the seas; and let the birds multiply on the earth.”
For the first time, God blesses His creation. This blessing imparts the ability to multiply, revealing that fruitfulness is part of God’s design. This foreshadows His later blessing upon humanity, reinforcing the importance of life and continuation.
Verse 23 – “Evening came, and morning followed—the fifth day.”
The rhythmic structure of creation—marked by evening and morning—underscores God’s intentionality. He is not creating at random but following a divinely ordained sequence.
Verse 24 – “Then God said: Let the earth bring forth every kind of living creature: tame animals, crawling things, and every kind of wild animal. And so it happened.”
God’s command causes the earth to produce life, illustrating His authority over all living things. Each creature has its place in His ecosystem, reinforcing the balance and harmony of creation.
Verse 25 – “God made every kind of wild animal, every kind of tame animal, and every kind of thing that crawls on the ground. God saw that it was good.”
Again, God affirms the goodness of creation. There is no division between sacred and secular in His world—all that He makes is inherently good, a stark contrast to the brokenness we often witness today.
Verse 26 – “Then God said: Let us make human beings in our image, after our likeness. Let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, the tame animals, all the wild animals, and all the creatures that crawl on the earth.”
This verse marks the pinnacle of creation: humanity is uniquely made in God’s image. The plural “Let us make” suggests the presence of the Trinity, prefiguring the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Unlike the rest of creation, humans are given dominion, not to exploit but to steward and reflect God’s rule.
Verse 27 – “God created mankind in His image; in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.”
Here, the sacredness of human identity is revealed. Being made in God’s image means we are endowed with intellect, free will, and the ability to love. The distinction of “male and female” highlights both the unity and complementarity of the sexes, pointing to God’s design for relationship.
Verse 28 – “God blessed them and God said to them: Be fertile and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it. Have dominion over the fish of the sea, the birds of the air, and all the living things that crawl on the earth.”
God’s first command to humanity is to be fruitful. Life itself is a blessing, and the call to multiply is an invitation to participate in God’s creative work. However, “subduing” the earth does not mean destruction—it signifies responsible care and governance.
Verse 29 – “God also said: See, I give you every seed-bearing plant on all the earth and every tree that has seed-bearing fruit on it to be your food.”
Provision is built into creation. Before sin, humanity is given plants for sustenance, reinforcing the theme of divine generosity and harmony with nature.
Verse 30 – “And to all the wild animals, all the birds of the air, and all the living creatures that crawl on the earth, I give all the green plants for food. And so it happened.”
God’s original design is one of peace—there is no violence or predation. This anticipates the biblical vision of a restored world, where harmony between creatures is restored (Isaiah 11:6).
Verse 31 – “God looked at everything He had made, and found it very good. Evening came, and morning followed—the sixth day.”
For the first time, God declares creation “very good.” With humanity present, the work of creation is complete. This affirms the inherent dignity of all people, regardless of worldly status or ability.
Verse 2:2-3 – “On the seventh day God completed the work He had been doing; He rested on the seventh day from all the work He had undertaken. God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it He rested from all the work He had done in creation.”
God’s rest is not inactivity but completion. The sanctification of the seventh day establishes the Sabbath, later reaffirmed in the Ten Commandments. It is a day set apart for worship and communion with Him.
Teachings
The Catechism teaches that “Man occupies a unique place in creation: (I) he is ‘in the image of God’; (II) in his own nature he unites the spiritual and material worlds; (III) he is created ‘male and female’; (IV) God established him in His friendship” (CCC 355). This affirms the sacredness of human life, regardless of ability, age, or status.
Additionally, the responsibility given to humanity is echoed in Laudato Si’, where Pope Francis warns against the “misuse of creation” and calls for “integral ecology”—a recognition that caring for the earth is a moral duty.
Finally, the Sabbath is central to Catholic teaching. Saint John Paul II reminds us, “The Lord’s Day is the day of Resurrection, the day of Christians, our day… It is the day of rest and joy” (Dies Domini, 1). Observing the Sabbath is not just an Old Testament practice but a call to prioritize God over worldly concerns.
Reflection
How often do we recognize our own dignity as God’s image-bearers? Do we treat others—especially those society overlooks—as reflections of Him? Our stewardship of creation also matters: Are we using God’s gifts responsibly or taking them for granted?
God’s rest is a model for us. Do we set aside time for prayer and worship, or have we filled our lives with distractions? Today, let us recommit to honoring His order, embracing the beauty of creation, and living as faithful stewards of His world. “God looked at everything He had made, and found it very good.” May we do the same.
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 8:4-9
The Majesty of God and the Dignity of Man
Psalm 8 is a hymn of praise that reflects on the grandeur of God’s creation and humanity’s unique place within it. Traditionally attributed to King David, this psalm was composed in an era when surrounding cultures often worshiped celestial bodies as deities. Instead of venerating the stars, the psalmist acknowledges that they are merely “the work of [God’s] fingers”—a testament to His power and artistry. This psalm fits beautifully within today’s theme, reinforcing the truth found in Genesis: that humanity, though small in comparison to the vast universe, is crowned with glory and honor by the Creator Himself. This recognition of human dignity contrasts with today’s Gospel, where Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for diminishing the true purpose of God’s commandments. Are we living as people who recognize both the majesty of God and the dignity He has given us?
Psalm 8:4-9
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
4 When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers,
the moon and stars that you set in place—
5 [a]What is man that you are mindful of him,
and a son of man that you care for him?
6 Yet you have made him little less than a god,
crowned him with glory and honor.
7 You have given him rule over the works of your hands,
put all things at his feet:
8 All sheep and oxen,
even the beasts of the field,
9 The birds of the air, the fish of the sea,
and whatever swims the paths of the seas.
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 4 – “When I see your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and stars that you set in place—”
This verse evokes awe at God’s creation. The phrase “work of your fingers” is particularly striking, as it anthropomorphizes God’s action, making it personal and intentional. Unlike pagan deities who were thought to battle for control over the heavens, the psalmist presents a God who calmly and precisely places the stars, revealing His sovereignty.
Verse 5 – “What is man that you are mindful of him, and a son of man that you care for him?”
Here, the psalmist expresses wonder at God’s attention to humanity. The phrase “son of man” is used here as a poetic way of referring to mankind’s frailty. This verse anticipates Christ’s own use of the title “Son of Man” in the Gospels, pointing to the mystery of the Incarnation—where God Himself enters into human nature out of love.
Verse 6 – “Yet you have made him little less than a god, crowned him with glory and honor.”
This verse directly echoes Genesis 1:26-27, where God creates mankind in His image and likeness. To be “little less than a god” does not imply divinity but rather speaks to the incredible dignity of human beings. This honor is not self-bestowed; it is a gift from God, calling humanity to reflect His goodness in the world.
Verse 7 – “You have given him rule over the works of your hands, put all things at his feet:”
Humanity’s dominion over creation is reiterated here. However, this does not mean tyranny or reckless exploitation, but a call to responsible stewardship. The phrase “put all things at his feet” foreshadows Christ’s ultimate kingship, where all creation is subject to Him (Ephesians 1:22).
Verse 8-9 – “All sheep and oxen, even the beasts of the field, the birds of the air, the fish of the sea, and whatever swims the paths of the seas.”
The psalmist lists elements of creation to emphasize the vastness of humanity’s responsibility. Just as God placed Adam in the Garden to care for it, we are entrusted with the well-being of the world. The mention of creatures from every realm—land, sky, and sea—further cements the universality of this divine commission.
Teachings
The Catechism affirms that humanity’s role in creation is not one of ownership, but of participation in God’s divine plan: “Of all visible creatures only man is ‘able to know and love his creator’; he is ‘the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake,’ and he alone is called to share, by knowledge and love, in God’s own life” (CCC 356). This teaching reaffirms Psalm 8’s awe at humanity’s dignity, reminding us that our worth comes not from achievements, but from being willed and loved by God.
Saint John Paul II, in his encyclical Evangelium Vitae, connects this truth to the sanctity of human life: “Man is called to a fullness of life which far exceeds the dimensions of his earthly existence, because it consists in sharing the very life of God” (EV 2). This underscores why every human life, from conception to natural death, must be revered.
Finally, Saint Augustine, reflecting on Psalm 8, teaches that our dominion over creation must be tempered with humility: “Man is given rule over the earth, not so that he may be prideful, but that he may recognize the One who has placed him above all earthly things” (Expositions on the Psalms). This is a call to gratitude and responsibility—attributes the Pharisees in today’s Gospel lacked when they prioritized human traditions over divine truth.
Reflection
When was the last time we paused to marvel at the beauty of God’s creation? In the midst of our daily concerns, it is easy to forget the sheer grandeur of the universe and, more importantly, our place within it. Do we recognize our dignity as God’s beloved children? Do we treat others with the reverence that comes from knowing they, too, are crowned with glory and honor?
Furthermore, Psalm 8 reminds us of our duty to care for creation. In a world where nature is often exploited for profit, we must ask: Are we being responsible stewards of God’s gifts, or are we contributing to their destruction? The way we treat the environment reflects whether we see it as God’s handiwork or merely a resource for consumption.
Finally, this psalm calls us to humility before God. It is a paradox—though we are little compared to the vast heavens, God has exalted us with responsibility. Are we using our influence, talents, and time for His glory? Today, let us echo the psalmist’s wonder and gratitude, remembering that we are not just creations of God—we are beloved, chosen, and entrusted with His work. “What is man that you are mindful of him?” May we live in a way that honors the answer.
Holy Gospel – Mark 7:1-13
God’s Command or Human Tradition? A Call to Authentic Worship
The Gospel of Mark is often described as the most direct and action-driven of the four Gospels, highlighting Jesus’ authority over religious traditions and laws. Today’s passage unfolds a confrontation between Jesus and the Pharisees, revealing a core issue that still resonates today: the difference between true worship and mere external observance. The Pharisees criticize Jesus’ disciples for not following the tradition of the elders—a set of human-made interpretations of the Mosaic Law that had become as binding as Scripture itself. This passage aligns with our theme by contrasting God’s divine order with human distortions. While Genesis and Psalm 8 affirm the goodness of God’s creation and the dignity of humanity, this Gospel passage warns against the dangers of elevating man-made rules above God’s truth. Are we truly following God’s commandments, or have we allowed human traditions and cultural expectations to take precedence over authentic faith?
Mark 7:1-13
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
The Tradition of the Elders. 1 Now when the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around him, 2 they observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands. 3 (For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders. 4 And on coming from the marketplace they do not eat without purifying themselves. And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed, the purification of cups and jugs and kettles [and beds].) 5 So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, “Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders[c] but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?” 6 He responded, “Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written:
‘This people honors me with their lips,
but their hearts are far from me;
7 In vain do they worship me,
teaching as doctrines human precepts.’
8 You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.” 9 He went on to say, “How well you have set aside the commandment of God in order to uphold your tradition! 10 For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and ‘Whoever curses father or mother shall die.’ 11 Yet you say, ‘If a person says to father or mother, “Any support you might have had from me is qorban”’ (meaning, dedicated to God), 12 you allow him to do nothing more for his father or mother. 13 You nullify the word of God in favor of your tradition that you have handed on. And you do many such things.”
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 1 – “Now when the Pharisees with some scribes who had come from Jerusalem gathered around him,”
The Pharisees and scribes, religious leaders deeply committed to interpreting Jewish law, come from Jerusalem, the center of religious authority. Their journey suggests a deliberate attempt to scrutinize Jesus, whose growing influence was perceived as a threat to their teachings.
Verse 2 – “They observed that some of his disciples ate their meals with unclean, that is, unwashed, hands.”
The Pharisees equated ritual handwashing with holiness, though this practice was not explicitly required by Mosaic Law. Over time, traditions such as this became rigid, overshadowing the heart of God’s commandments.
Verse 3-4 – “(For the Pharisees and, in fact, all Jews, do not eat without carefully washing their hands, keeping the tradition of the elders. And on coming from the marketplace they do not eat without purifying themselves. And there are many other things that they have traditionally observed, the purification of cups and jugs and kettles [and beds].)”
Mark, writing for a Gentile audience unfamiliar with Jewish customs, explains these rituals. The tradition of the elders refers to oral laws meant to prevent Jews from inadvertently breaking the Torah. However, Jesus challenges whether such customs genuinely honor God.
Verse 5 – “So the Pharisees and scribes questioned him, ‘Why do your disciples not follow the tradition of the elders but instead eat a meal with unclean hands?’”
Rather than ask Jesus about His teachings or miracles, they focus on an external issue. Their question reveals their misplaced priorities—they are more concerned with ritual purity than inner righteousness.
Verse 6-7 – “He responded, ‘Well did Isaiah prophesy about you hypocrites, as it is written: ‘This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; In vain do they worship me, teaching as doctrines human precepts.’”
Jesus quotes Isaiah 29:13, a passage condemning superficial worship. The term hypocrites (from the Greek hypokrites, meaning “actor”) suggests that their devotion is a performance rather than a heartfelt relationship with God.
Verse 8 – “You disregard God’s commandment but cling to human tradition.”
Jesus makes a clear distinction: God’s commandments are unchanging, but human traditions, if they obscure true faith, must be reconsidered.
Verse 9-10 – “He went on to say, ‘How well you have set aside the commandment of God in order to uphold your tradition! For Moses said, ‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and ‘Whoever curses father or mother shall die.’”
Jesus refers to the Fourth Commandment, showing that God’s law prioritizes familial love and duty. True worship is lived out in obedience to God’s will, not in outward piety.
Verse 11-12 – “Yet you say, ‘If a person says to father or mother, ‘Any support you might have had from me is qorban’ (meaning, dedicated to God), you allow him to do nothing more for his father or mother.”
The practice of qorban allowed individuals to dedicate money or property to the Temple, thereby excusing themselves from obligations like caring for elderly parents. Jesus condemns this as a distortion of God’s law—manipulating religion to justify selfishness.
Verse 13 – “You nullify the word of God in favor of your tradition that you have handed on. And you do many such things.”
By prioritizing legalistic traditions, the Pharisees have nullified God’s Word—a serious accusation. Jesus warns that spiritual corruption occurs when human customs override divine truth.
Teachings
The Catechism warns against religious hypocrisy, stating: “Faith is first of all a personal adherence of man to God… But ‘faith works through charity’ (Gal 5:6); without charity, faith is dead and does not bear fruit” (CCC 1814). True faith is not just external compliance—it must be rooted in love and transformed into action.
Saint Augustine teaches that true worship is an interior disposition, not merely external observance: “God does not want golden vessels but golden hearts” (Sermon 34). Rituals have value, but only when they lead to deeper relationship with God. The Pharisees’ mistake was prioritizing appearance over authenticity.
Pope Francis also echoes this concern, stating: “When our hearts are distant from God, our religious practices become barren. We must not be Christians of appearances, but Christians of substance” (Homily, February 2018). Worship must be lived out in justice, love, and mercy—otherwise, it is empty.
Reflection
How often do we, like the Pharisees, focus on external righteousness rather than true inner conversion? Do we judge others based on appearances or religious practices while neglecting our own need for deeper holiness?
This passage challenges us to examine our hearts. Are there human traditions or personal habits that we have elevated above God’s commands? Are we clinging to comfort, pride, or cultural expectations rather than surrendering to His will?
Jesus invites us into authentic worship—a faith that is not about rules for their own sake, but about a relationship with God. Today, let us ask: Am I truly honoring God, or am I just going through the motions? Let us return to a faith that is real, vibrant, and rooted in love—one that glorifies not just with words, but with our hearts, our actions, and our lives.
Returning to God’s Order: A Heart-Centered Faith
Throughout today’s readings, we have seen a striking contrast between God’s divine order and humanity’s tendency to distort it. Genesis revealed the beauty of God’s creation, where everything was made according to His wisdom and declared “very good.” Psalm 8 deepened this theme, reminding us of the incredible dignity we have as God’s image-bearers. But in Mark’s Gospel, we witnessed how human traditions—when misplaced—can cloud our understanding of God’s will, turning faith into mere ritual instead of a living relationship. “This people honors me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” These words of Jesus challenge us to reflect on whether we are truly living in accordance with His divine order, or if we have allowed external customs, distractions, or personal pride to take precedence.
God’s plan has always been one of love, purpose, and communion with Him. He created us in His image, crowned us with glory and honor, and entrusted us with stewardship of the earth. But that calling demands something deeper than just outward obedience—it requires an interior transformation. Are we worshiping God with our whole hearts, or are we merely going through the motions? Are we living as stewards of His creation and of one another, or have we neglected the responsibilities He has given us? Today’s readings remind us that true faith is not about appearances—it is about alignment with God’s will.
As we go forward, let us commit to authentic worship and faithful living. Let us seek to honor God not just with our lips, but with our lives. Maybe this means rediscovering the beauty of the Sabbath, treating others with the dignity they deserve, or surrendering areas where we have allowed human traditions or personal pride to overshadow God’s truth. Whatever it is, God invites us back to His perfect order—a life of purpose, relationship, and holiness. He looked at everything He had made, and found it very good. May we seek to do the same.
Engage with Us!
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Reflection Questions
First Reading – Genesis 1:20-2:4: God created us in His image and entrusted us with stewardship over creation. How does knowing you are made in His image shape the way you see yourself and others? In what ways can you be a better steward of God’s creation in your daily life?
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 8:4-9: The psalmist marvels at the vastness of creation and the dignity God has given humanity. When was the last time you paused to appreciate the beauty of God’s work? How can you cultivate a greater sense of wonder and gratitude for the world around you?
Holy Gospel – Mark 7:1-13: Jesus challenges the Pharisees for prioritizing human traditions over God’s commandments. Are there traditions, habits, or attitudes in your life that might be distracting you from a deeper relationship with God? How can you ensure that your worship is truly heartfelt and not just routine?
May we go forth today striving to live in the fullness of God’s order, with hearts centered on Him. Let us embrace the dignity He has given us, worship Him with sincerity, and treat others with the love and mercy Jesus taught us. Everything we do, let it be for His glory.
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Holy Manna! 
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