"The Lost Drachma" -- by James Tissot |
FIRST
READING:
Philippians 3:
3 - 8
3
For we are the circumcision, who in spirit serve God; and glory in
Christ Jesus, not having confidence in the flesh.
4
Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other
thinketh he may have confidence in the flesh, I more,
5
Being circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the
tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; according to the law, a
Pharisee:
6
According to zeal, persecuting the church of God; according to the
justice that is in the law, conversing without blame.
7
But the things that were gain to me, the same I have counted loss for
Christ.
8
Furthermore I count all things to be but loss for the excellent
knowledge of Jesus Christ my Lord; for whom I have suffered the loss
of all things, and count them but as dung, that I may gain Christ.
PSALM:
Psalms 105:
2 - 7
2
Sing to him, yea sing praises to him: relate all his wondrous works.
3
Glory ye in his holy name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek
the Lord.
4
Seek ye the Lord, and be strengthened: seek his face evermore.
5
Remember his marvellous works which he hath done; his wonders, and
the judgments of his mouth.
6
O ye seed of Abraham his servant; ye sons of Jacob his chosen.
7
He is the Lord our God: his judgments are in all the earth.
GOSPEL:
Luke 15:
1 - 10
1
Now the publicans and sinners drew near unto him to hear him.
2
And the Pharisees and the scribes murmured, saying: This man
receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
3
And he spoke to them this parable, saying:
4
What man of you that hath an hundred sheep: and if he shall lose one
of them, doth he not leave the ninety-nine in the desert, and go
after that which was lost, until he find it?
5
And when he hath found it, lay it upon his shoulders, rejoicing:
6
And coming home, call together his friends and neighbours, saying to
them: Rejoice with me, because I have found my sheep that was lost?
7
I say to you, that even so there shall be joy in heaven upon one
sinner that doth penance, more than upon ninety-nine just who need
not penance.
8
Or what woman having ten groats; if she lose one groat, doth not
light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently until she
find it?
9
And when she hath found it, call together her friends and neighbours,
saying: Rejoice with me, because I have found the groat which I had
lost.
10
So I say to you, there shall be joy before the angels of God upon one
sinner doing penance.