24TH AUGUST 2025: DAILY CATHOLIC MASS READINGS TODAY SUNDAY; 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time

Brothers and sisters, On this 21st Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Scriptures remind us of both the wideness of God’s mercy and the seriousness of our response to His call. In the first reading from Isaiah, the Lord declares His plan to gather people from every nation and tongue. God’s salvation is not restricted to one people but is universal—He sends His messengers to the ends of the earth so that all may share in His glory. This vision anticipates the Church’s mission to proclaim the Gospel to every nation. The responsorial psalm echoes this theme with joyful simplicity: “Go out to all the world and tell the Good News.” Every believer is called to be part of this mission, not keeping the gift of faith for ourselves but sharing it with others. The second reading from the Letter to the Hebrews shifts our attention to discipleship and discipline. The author reminds us that the Lord disciplines those He loves. Just as a parent guides a child, God allows challenges and trials to shape us so that we may grow in holiness and peace. Enduring these struggles with faith strengthens us to walk the straight path and encourages those around us. Finally, in the Gospel, Jesus warns that entering the Kingdom is not automatic or easy. He calls us to “strive to enter through the narrow gate,” meaning a life of conversion, humility, and active discipleship. Some who assume they are close to God may find themselves outside, while others—once considered last—will be welcomed first. The Gospel is both an invitation and a challenge: salvation is God’s free gift, but it requires our faithful response. This Sunday, we are invited to embrace God’s universal call, accept His loving discipline, and persevere in walking the narrow path that leads to life. The Lord desires all nations to come to His table, but each of us must daily choose to live as His true disciple.