Today’s Readings – Wednesday of Week 2 of Ordinary Time - First Reading

Commentary on Hebrews 7:1-3,15-17

We now continue to reflect on the meaning of Jesus Christ as our priest. Today’s reading tells us that Jesus belongs “to the order of Melchizedek”, and discusses both the similarities and differences between the Old Testament figure and Christ.

The author explores the significance of applying Psalm 110 to Christ:

You are a priest forever,
according to the order of Melchizedek. (Ps 110:4)


He relies on the only reference to Melchizedek, a mysterious king-priest, in the Old Testament, where he is described as meeting with Abraham (Gen 14:17-24). The author presumes that he belonged to the beliefs of Israel and not to some other religious group.

As that reading affirms, he is the “king of Salem” and a priest of the Most H … Continue

Yesterday’s Readings – Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr

Agnes was martyred at the end of the persecution of the Roman emperor Diocletian, probably in the early years of the 4th century.  She is thought to have been between 12 and 15 years of age.  It is clear that her death was the result of a determination to preserve her virginity.  The Ch … Continue