The Gift That Pleases God
Have you ever wondered what kind of gift truly delights the heart of God? In today’s readings, we are invited to reflect on the nature of sacrifice—not just in the sense of burnt offerings or material gifts, but in the deeper sense of giving from the heart. True worship, as Scripture reveals, is not about empty rituals but about generosity, justice, and unwavering trust in God’s promises. The Lord desires a sacrifice of love, obedience, and praise, and in return, He promises a reward beyond our imagining.
In Sirach, we see that keeping God’s law, acting justly, and giving generously are considered more valuable than mere offerings. The psalm echoes this, reminding us that “those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me” (Psalm 50:23). The ancient Israelites understood sacrifice as a way to remain in covenant with God, but through the prophets, the Lord continuously taught that the true sacrifice He desires is a heart that seeks Him above all else. In the Gospel, Jesus brings this teaching to its fulfillment, assuring His disciples that those who give up everything for the sake of the Kingdom will receive a hundredfold in this life—and, most importantly, eternal life in the world to come. This radical call to trust challenges us: Do we give freely, expecting nothing in return, or do we hesitate, clinging to what is comfortable?
These readings remind us that sacrificial giving is not about loss, but about gain—though not always in the way the world measures success. Jesus’ promise that “many that are first will be last, and [the] last will be first” (Mark 10:31) invites us to rethink our priorities. The Kingdom of God operates on a different economy, one where the greatest rewards are reserved for those who surrender everything into God’s hands. Are we willing to give generously, not only of our resources but of our very lives, trusting that God’s blessings will be more than enough?
First Reading – Sirach 35:1-12
The Sacrifice That Pleases God
The Book of Sirach, also known as Ecclesiasticus, is one of the wisdom books of the Old Testament. Written by Jesus Ben Sira in the second century B.C., it served as a guide for Jewish believers striving to live righteously. Unlike books that focus on prophecy or history, Sirach provides practical instructions on ethics, worship, and daily life. This book was widely respected in Jewish tradition, and while it was not included in the Hebrew Bible, it was embraced by the Catholic Church as part of the inspired Scriptures.
During the time of Sirach, Temple sacrifices played a central role in Jewish religious life. Offerings of animals, grain, and incense were seen as essential acts of devotion. However, today’s reading emphasizes a deeper truth: true sacrifice is not just about what we offer outwardly, but about the state of our heart. Obedience to God’s law, acts of charity, and a generous spirit are the most pleasing sacrifices to the Lord. This message connects to today’s theme of sacrificial giving and divine reward. It prepares us for the Gospel’s teaching that those who give up everything for God will receive far more in return.
Sirach 35:1-12
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
1 To keep the law is to make many offerings;
2 whoever observes the commandments sacrifices a peace offering.
3 By works of charity one offers fine flour,
4 and one who gives alms presents a sacrifice of praise.
5 To refrain from evil pleases the Lord,
and to avoid injustice is atonement.
6 Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed,
7 for all that you offer is in fulfillment of the precepts.
8 The offering of the just enriches the altar:
a sweet odor before the Most High.
9 The sacrifice of the just is accepted,
never to be forgotten.
10 With a generous spirit pay homage to the Lord,
and do not spare your freewill gifts.
11 With each contribution show a cheerful countenance,
and pay your tithes in a spirit of joy.
12 Give to the Most High as he has given to you,
generously, according to your means.
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 1 – “To keep the law is to make many offerings;”
This verse equates obedience with sacrifice. While physical offerings were important in Jewish worship, Sirach reminds us that keeping God’s law is an even greater act of devotion. This foreshadows what Jesus later taught: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). True worship is not just about external acts but about a life lived in faithfulness to God’s will.
Verse 2 – “Whoever observes the commandments sacrifices a peace offering.”
In Jewish tradition, the peace offering was an expression of thanksgiving and communion with God. This verse suggests that when we follow God’s commandments, we are making a true and lasting offering. Our obedience fosters peace—both with God and within ourselves.
Verse 3 – “By works of charity one offers fine flour, and one who gives alms presents a sacrifice of praise.”
This verse redefines the concept of sacrifice. Charity and almsgiving are compared to the finest offerings in the Temple. This echoes Jesus’ words: “Give alms, and behold, everything will be clean for you” (Luke 11:41). The act of giving generously to others is a form of worship that honors God.
Verse 4 – “To refrain from evil pleases the Lord, and to avoid injustice is atonement.”
Avoiding sin is itself a sacrifice. Many people focus on doing good works, but this verse reminds us that choosing to reject sin is just as important as performing acts of charity. This connects to Romans 12:1 – “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.”
Verse 5-6 – “Do not appear before the Lord empty-handed, for all that you offer is in fulfillment of the precepts.”
God commanded His people in Exodus 23:15 never to come before Him without an offering. While this originally referred to material sacrifices, Sirach expands the meaning: our offerings should include faith, trust, and obedience.
Verse 7-9 – “The offering of the just enriches the altar: a sweet odor before the Most High. The sacrifice of the just is accepted, never to be forgotten.”
In the Old Testament, a “sweet odor” represented a pleasing sacrifice to God (Genesis 8:21). This passage assures us that God never forgets the sacrifices made by the righteous. No act of love or generosity goes unnoticed by Him.
Verse 10-12 – “With a generous spirit pay homage to the Lord, and do not spare your freewill gifts. With each contribution show a cheerful countenance, and pay your tithes in a spirit of joy. Give to the Most High as he has given to you, generously, according to your means.”
These verses reflect 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “God loves a cheerful giver.” True generosity is not given out of duty but from a heart that understands everything we have is a gift from God. Just as God gives abundantly, so too should we give freely and joyfully.
Teachings from the Church
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that true sacrifice involves both external acts and internal devotion. CCC 2100 states: “Outward sacrifice, to be genuine, must be the expression of spiritual sacrifice: ‘The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit… a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise’ (Ps 51:17).“ This reinforces the idea that a heart turned toward God is more valuable than any external offering.
St. Augustine expresses this truth beautifully in his Confessions: “What have I that You have not given me? Whatever I have given to You was already Yours.” This reflects the message of Sirach: our generosity is not really about “giving” to God, but about recognizing that all we have comes from Him.
The early Church lived this teaching in a radical way. In Acts 4:34-35, we read: “There was no needy person among them, for those who owned property or houses would sell them and bring the proceeds to the apostles.” This was not just an act of charity but a recognition that everything belongs to God. Today, the Church continues to call us to generous stewardship, reminding us that we are only stewards of God’s blessings, not owners.
Reflection
This reading challenges us to ask: What am I offering to God? Too often, we see sacrifice as loss, but Sirach teaches that true sacrifice is about giving ourselves—our love, our obedience, and our generosity.
In daily life, this means looking at how we can live out this message. Choosing to give generously, not only with money but also with time, kindness, and encouragement. Practicing charity with joy, seeing generosity as a privilege rather than a burden. Understanding that avoiding sin is a form of worship, just as much as actively doing good.
Ultimately, this reading invites us to reflect: Am I giving God only what is convenient, or am I offering my heart, my trust, and my love freely and joyfully?
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 50:5-8, 14, 23
The True Sacrifice of Worship
The Book of Psalms is one of the most treasured books of the Old Testament, serving as the prayer book of Israel and the early Church. Traditionally attributed to King David, the psalms express the full range of human emotion—praise, lament, thanksgiving, and supplication—making them deeply personal yet profoundly communal. Psalm 50, attributed to Asaph, is unique in that it presents God speaking directly to His people in the form of divine instruction. This psalm is a call to right worship, emphasizing that God desires sincere devotion over empty ritual.
At the time this psalm was written, the Israelites followed the sacrificial system commanded in the Mosaic Law. Offerings of animals, grain, and incense were an integral part of their worship, symbolizing atonement and thanksgiving. However, as the prophets repeatedly warned, external rituals meant nothing if they were not accompanied by a heart of righteousness and faithfulness. Psalm 50 fits into today’s theme of sacrificial giving and divine reward by reminding us that true worship is not about what we give to God, but how we live before Him. It connects with the first reading from Sirach, which emphasized that obedience, charity, and justice are the most pleasing sacrifices to God.
Psalm 50:5-8, 14, 23
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
5 “Gather my loyal ones to me,
those who made a covenant with me by sacrifice.”
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness,
for God himself is the judge.
Selah
7 “Listen, my people, I will speak;
Israel, I will testify against you;
God, your God, am I.
8 Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you,
your burnt offerings are always before me.
14 Offer praise as your sacrifice to God;
fulfill your vows to the Most High.
23 Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me;
I will let him whose way is steadfast
look upon the salvation of God.”
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 5 – “Gather my loyal ones to me, those who made a covenant with me by sacrifice.”
God calls together His faithful ones, referring to those who have entered into a covenant with Him through sacrifice. In the Old Testament, the Israelites sealed their covenant relationship with God through blood sacrifices (Exodus 24:8). However, this verse hints at a deeper meaning—true loyalty to God is not about external offerings but about the heart’s devotion to Him. This foreshadows the New Covenant in Christ, where sacrifice is no longer about burnt offerings but about faith and obedience.
Verse 6 – “The heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is the judge. Selah”
The heavens are often portrayed in Scripture as bearing witness to God’s justice and power (Psalm 19:1). This verse establishes that God alone is the righteous judge, reinforcing that He does not merely look at outward appearances but at the true intentions of the heart. The word Selah, commonly found in the Psalms, is a musical or meditative pause, inviting reflection on this profound truth.
Verse 7 – “Listen, my people, I will speak; Israel, I will testify against you; God, your God, am I.”
Here, God addresses His people directly, taking on the role of both judge and witness. The phrase “God, your God, am I” is a solemn reminder of the covenant relationship—God has chosen Israel, and they are accountable to Him. This verse sets the stage for a call to repentance, emphasizing that God desires a transformed heart, not just external rituals.
Verse 8 – “Not for your sacrifices do I rebuke you, your burnt offerings are always before me.”
God clarifies that He is not rejecting sacrifices themselves. The Israelites were faithful in offering burnt offerings, but their worship had become mechanical. The issue was not the act of sacrifice but the lack of sincerity and righteousness behind it. This reflects the prophet Isaiah’s rebuke: “What do I care for the multitude of your sacrifices? … Bring no more worthless offerings; your incense is loathsome to me” (Isaiah 1:11-13). Worship must come from a place of genuine love and obedience, not mere obligation.
Verse 14 – “Offer praise as your sacrifice to God; fulfill your vows to the Most High.”
This verse presents the alternative to empty rituals—true worship is found in thanksgiving and faithfulness. The emphasis shifts from external offerings to the sacrifice of a grateful heart. This aligns with Sirach’s teaching that charity and obedience are the most pleasing offerings to God. The phrase “fulfill your vows” underscores the importance of faithfulness, reminding us that a commitment to God requires more than words—it requires action.
Verse 23 – “Those who offer praise as a sacrifice honor me; I will let him whose way is steadfast look upon the salvation of God.”
The final verse affirms that praise and righteousness are the true sacrifices that honor God. Those who live steadfastly in faith will witness God’s salvation. This foreshadows the promise of eternal life in Christ, who fulfilled the ultimate sacrifice on the cross. The message is clear: salvation is not achieved through ritual sacrifices but through a heart that trusts in and honors God.
Teachings from the Church
The Catechism teaches that worship must be rooted in sincere faith and love for God. CCC 2099-2100 states: “It is right to offer sacrifice to God as a sign of adoration and gratitude… However, outward sacrifice, to be genuine, must be the expression of spiritual sacrifice: ‘The sacrifice acceptable to God is a broken spirit; a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise’ (Ps 51:17).” This directly reflects the message of Psalm 50—God desires the sacrifice of a transformed heart, not mere rituals.
St. John Chrysostom, commenting on worship, reminds us: “The best sacrifice we can offer to God is a soul purified by virtue and a heart filled with gratitude.” This connects with today’s psalm, which emphasizes thanksgiving as the truest form of sacrifice. Our worship should not be transactional but an act of love and devotion.
The early Christians embraced this teaching, as seen in Hebrews 13:15-16: “Through him [Jesus] let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have; God is pleased by sacrifices of that kind.” The Eucharist is the perfect fulfillment of this psalm’s message—the sacrifice of Christ, received with thanksgiving and faith, is the highest form of worship.
Reflection
Psalm 50 challenges us to examine our worship. Do I offer God true praise, or do I simply go through the motions? God does not desire meaningless rituals but a life of gratitude, faith, and righteousness. This means that our worship should not be limited to church services but should be reflected in how we live daily.
One way to apply this teaching is by cultivating a spirit of thanksgiving. Instead of focusing on what we lack, we can offer praise to God for His many blessings. Another way is by ensuring that our worship is accompanied by action. Just as Sirach teaches that charity is a true sacrifice, we must ensure that our faith is lived out in love and service to others.
This psalm also calls us to faithfulness. Do I keep my promises to God? Am I steadfast in my commitment to Him, or do I only turn to Him in times of need? True worship is not just about words but about a life that honors God in all things.
Psalm 50 leaves us with an invitation to reflect on what we are offering to God. Am I giving Him mere rituals, or am I offering my heart, my gratitude, and my trust?
Holy Gospel – Mark 10:28-31
The Reward of Sacrificial Discipleship
The Gospel of Mark is the shortest of the four Gospels, but it is known for its urgency and focus on discipleship. Written around 65-70 A.D., it was likely composed for the Christian community in Rome, many of whom faced persecution for their faith. Mark presents Jesus as the suffering servant, emphasizing that true discipleship requires sacrifice, humility, and trust in God.
Today’s passage follows Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man, who walked away saddened because he was unwilling to give up his wealth to follow Christ. This sets the stage for Peter’s question, expressing the concern of the disciples: if they had given up everything, what would their reward be? Jesus responds with both a promise and a challenge. He assures them that their sacrifices will not be in vain, but He also warns them that the Kingdom of God does not operate according to human expectations. This passage ties directly into today’s theme of sacrificial giving and divine reward, showing that those who give up everything for God will receive far more in return—both in this life and in eternity.
Mark 10:28-31
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
28 Peter began to say to him, “We have given up everything and followed you.” 29 Jesus said, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the gospel 30 who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come. 31 But many that are first will be last, and [the] last will be first.”
Detailed Exegesis
Verse 28 – “Peter began to say to him, ‘We have given up everything and followed you.’”
Peter’s words reflect the disciples’ deep commitment. Unlike the rich young man, who could not part with his wealth, Peter reminds Jesus that they have left behind their homes, families, and livelihoods to follow Him. His statement is both a declaration of faith and an implicit question—what will they gain in return? This question is natural; after all, they have surrendered everything for a life of uncertainty.
Verse 29 – “Jesus said, ‘Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the gospel”
Jesus begins His response with “Amen, I say to you,” a phrase He often uses to introduce a solemn and authoritative teaching. He acknowledges that following Him requires great personal sacrifices. Leaving behind one’s home and family was especially significant in Jewish culture, where family ties were deeply valued. However, Jesus makes it clear that true discipleship sometimes requires placing Him above even the most precious earthly relationships. This echoes His earlier teaching: “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me” (Matthew 10:37).
Verse 30 – “Who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come.”
Jesus’ promise is twofold. First, He assures that whatever is given up for His sake will be repaid a hundredfold in this life. This does not mean a literal multiplication of material possessions, but rather, it refers to the spiritual family found in the community of believers. The Church becomes a new family for those who leave everything behind, offering love, support, and provision.
However, Jesus does not paint a picture of an easy life. He warns that these blessings will come “with persecutions.” This is a crucial reminder that following Christ is not about seeking rewards but about embracing the cross. Suffering is part of discipleship, but it is also the path to eternal life, which is the ultimate reward.
Verse 31 – “But many that are first will be last, and the last will be first.”
Jesus concludes with a paradox that challenges worldly notions of success. In God’s kingdom, the standards are reversed—those who seem to have lost everything will be exalted, while those who seek status and security will find themselves last. This reflects the Beatitudes: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). True greatness is found in humility and self-giving love.
Teachings from the Church
The Catechism teaches that true discipleship involves detachment from material goods and a willingness to trust in God’s providence. CCC 2544 states: “Jesus enjoins his disciples to prefer him to everything and everyone, and bids them ‘renounce all that they have’ for his sake and that of the Gospel. Shortly before his passion he gave them the example of the poor widow of Jerusalem who, out of her poverty, gave all that she had to live on.” This echoes the message of today’s Gospel—giving up everything for Christ is not a loss, but a gain.
St. Francis of Assisi lived out this teaching in a radical way. He renounced his family’s wealth to embrace a life of poverty and total dependence on God. He famously said, “It is in giving that we receive.” His life demonstrated that the more we surrender to God, the more He fills us with His grace.
The early Christian martyrs also embodied this passage. Many gave up their homes, families, and even their lives for the sake of the Gospel. One striking example is St. Perpetua, who, despite having a newborn son, chose martyrdom rather than renounce her faith. Her writings reveal that she considered her earthly losses nothing compared to the reward of eternal life. The lives of the saints remind us that true fulfillment comes not from clinging to worldly security, but from entrusting everything to Christ.
Reflection
This Gospel challenges us to examine what we are willing to surrender for Christ. Do I hold anything back from God? Am I too attached to my possessions, relationships, or personal comfort to follow Him completely? Jesus does not promise an easy road, but He assures us that whatever we give up for Him will be returned abundantly—both in this life and in eternity.
One way to live out this teaching is by practicing detachment. This does not mean rejecting all material things, but rather, using them wisely and generously without becoming enslaved to them. Another step is to trust in God’s providence. Many hesitate to be generous with their time, talents, or resources out of fear of lacking what they need. But Jesus’ promise reminds us that God will always provide.
This passage also invites us to reflect on how we treat those who are “last” in society. Jesus tells us that the first will be last, and the last will be first. Do I value the poor, the forgotten, and the marginalized as Christ does? Do I see them as my brothers and sisters in the faith? Living this Gospel means recognizing that true greatness is found in humility, generosity, and total dependence on God.
Jesus’ words leave us with a powerful question: Am I truly willing to follow Him, even if it means sacrifice? Do I trust that whatever I give up for Him will be repaid a hundredfold?
The Joy of Giving Everything to God
Today’s readings reveal a powerful truth: true sacrifice is not about what we give up, but about what we receive in return. The Book of Sirach reminds us that God desires offerings of justice, charity, and joyful generosity. Psalm 50 echoes this by teaching that the sacrifice most pleasing to God is not burnt offerings but a heart filled with gratitude and faithfulness. Finally, in the Gospel of Mark, Jesus assures us that whatever we surrender for His sake will be repaid a hundredfold, though not without trials, and that the greatest reward is eternal life with Him.
These readings challenge us to redefine what it means to sacrifice. The world teaches us to hold tightly to our wealth, our status, and even our relationships, but God calls us to trust Him completely. When we give freely—whether through acts of charity, by placing God above all else, or by surrendering our own desires for His will—we are not losing, but gaining.
God does not ask us to give up everything without reason. He is not a God who takes, but a God who gives. He promises that our sacrifices will never go unnoticed, and He is faithful to reward those who trust in Him. The question He places before us today is simple but profound: What am I holding onto that keeps me from fully following Christ?
Let today be a call to deeper trust and generosity. Offer God not only your material possessions but also your heart, your will, and your fears. Give to Him with joy, knowing that He will return your gift in ways far beyond what you can imagine. Step forward in faith, trusting that God’s abundance is far greater than anything we could ever sacrifice.
Are you ready to give everything to the One who has already given everything for you?
Engage with Us!
We would love to hear your thoughts! How do today’s readings speak to your heart? Share your reflections in the comments below and let’s grow together in faith. Take a moment to prayerfully consider the following questions and join the conversation.
First Reading – Sirach 35:1-12
What does it mean for you to offer your life as a sacrifice to God? In what ways can you practice joyful generosity in your daily life? How can you give to God as He has given to you?
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 50:5-8, 14, 23
How does this psalm challenge your understanding of worship? Are there areas in your life where you focus more on outward religious practices rather than inward devotion? How can you make your life a true offering of praise to God?
Holy Gospel – Mark 10:28-31
What have you sacrificed for your faith, and how has God blessed you in return? What attachments in your life make it difficult to fully follow Christ? Do you trust that God’s rewards will always surpass what you give up for Him?
May today’s readings inspire you to live a life of faith, trust, and joyful generosity. Whatever you offer to God—your time, your gifts, your sacrifices—do so with love and mercy, just as Jesus taught us. Trust in His promises, live boldly in His grace, and go forward knowing that He is always faithful. Give with joy, love with all your heart, and follow Christ without fear—He will always provide.
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Holy Manna! 
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