Mass Reading and Reflection on Saturday, December 6, 2025.

First Reading

Isaiah: (30:19-21, 23-26)

Responsorial Psalm:

(Psalm 147)
Response: Blessed are all those who wait for the Lord.

Gospel Reading: (Matthew 9:35–10:1, 5–8)

At that time, Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every disease and infirmity. When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Pray therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.”

Jesus called his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and infirmity. He sent them out, charging them: “Go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel, and preach as you go, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven is at hand.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse lepers, cast out demons. You received without pay, give without pay.”

Reflection

In the Gospel today’s, we saw Jesus commissioning his apostles to minister to the “lost sheep of Israel,” empowering them to heal, deliver, and restore life. Their mission was clear: to bring joy, consolation, and hope.

From the very beginning, Jesus moved with compassion. He healed the sick, lifted burdens, and brought joy to the afflicted. His ministry exemplified what it means to be a source of light and life to others.

As we prepare for Christmas during this Advent season, we are called to imitate Christ’s example. By our words, deeds, and presence, we are to bearers of joy. Wherever we are, at home, at work, in public service, or in our communities, we must ask ourselves:

• Do I bring joy or pain to those around me?

• Do people smile because of my generosity, kindness, or ministry?

• Can my actions bring consolation to those in sorrow or distress?

Jesus and his apostles healed, raised the dead, cleansed, and cast out demons, acts that brought visible and spiritual joy. We, too, are called to minister in ways that transform lives, even in small but meaningful ways.

Let us pray for the grace to be a source of joy this Christmas, to console the sorrowful, lift the distressed, and bring hope to the despairing. May our lives reflect Christ’s love so that others may smile and rejoice because of our presence and actions.

Amen 

God bless you 

Pal Ronnie