The Liturgy of the Word, continued

The Liturgy of the Word, continued
by Fr. Joseph Evinger

As I pick up again the series on the Mass allow me to cover part two of the Liturgy of the Word. The Liturgy of the Word is known as the first essential part of the Mass. Without listening to Jesus’ word none of us come to faith.

The first reading at Mass, with the exception of the Easter Season, is normally taken from the Old Testament or Covenant. Even though we are no longer bound by this old covenant as given to Abraham, Moses, etc., understanding its history and substance is quite essential. The Old Testament reminds us of our fall from God through the trickery of the serpent, and then how God slowly and patiently prepared us in the fullness of time for the coming of his Son, Jesus Christ. It is through his coming, preaching, and paschal sacrifice that we are able to return to eternal life with the Father.

Between the first and second readings we always have a psalm or canticle, a prayer of praise or a plea for mercy to God. Many of these psalms are 2500 to 3000 years old. The second reading then is taken from one of the letters or other writings of the New Testament or Covenant teaching us some aspect of the Christian faith.

Lastly, we hear from one of the four Gospels which speak directly about Jesus and contain his own words while He lived bodily on this earth. The importance of the gospel is expressed by everyone standing up out of reverence and respect to Jesus. It is as if He Himself walked into the church causing us to stand out of reverence and respect. Yet, this is exactly what takes place. Jesus truly does enter our presence in a living way for we are truly hearing Him speak not to those first disciples but now He is speaking to us.

“Indeed, the word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12)

May we always be attentive to the scriptures when they are read at Mass. Following along in the missalette or another missal help us stay focused. Reading the scriptures before Mass can bring this part of the Mass to a whole new level.