The Blood of the Covenant and the Eyes That See

Exod 24:3-8; Psalm: 49; Mt 13,16-17

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, today we celebrate the special Parents’ Day to honor the legacy of Saints Joachim and Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

As we reflect on their lives, we are reminded of the profound impact that parents have on the faith journey of their children. It is fitting that we also contemplate the theme of our sermon today, which is the Blood of the Covenant and the Eyes That See. Let us turn our attention first to the book of Exodus, where we find a powerful moment in the history of Israel. In Exodus 24, we read of the covenant that God establishes with His people. The blood of sacrifices becomes the seal of this covenant, a sign of life and communion. When Moses presents God’s commandments to the Israelites, they respond with an enthusiastic, “We will obey!” It is a unanimous commitment, a powerful affirmation of their faith. This moment mirrors the Fiat of Mary, who also responded with a complete and unwavering yes to God’s call. The blood that Moses sprinkled on the altar and the people signifies more than a mere ritual. It represents the very life of God flowing into His people, binding them together in a sacred relationship. This blood is a reminder of our call to live in communion with God and with one another.

Today, as we celebrate the legacy of Joachim and Anne, we acknowledge the bloodline of faith that they passed down to Mary, and ultimately to us. In the Gospel of Matthew, we hear Jesus proclaim the blessedness of those who see with unveiled eyes. He tells His disciples, “Blessed are your eyes for they see, and your ears for they hear.” This blessed vision is a gift from God, allowing us to perceive the divine in our everyday lives. But what happens when faith feels distant? What do we do amid broken promises, betrayal, and injustice?

Just as the blood of the covenant at Sinai provides us with hope, we must remember that God’s covenant with us is unbreakable. Even when we find ourselves in the depths of despair, we can lean on this promise. The blood that Moses sprinkled is a reminder that God’s love and commitment endure through all trials. Moreover, Jesus’ words invite us to seek prophetic sight. In a world filled with doubt, scandal, and distraction, we often find ourselves spiritually blind. Just as Moses returned to the roots of the covenant, we too must seek to rediscover our faith in daily life. We can ask God to open our eyes to see Christ in the wounded, in those who suffer, and in those who have been marginalized.

As we reflect on these themes, we can draw practical applications for our lives. First, let us strive to become a Covenant Ark. What does this mean? It means that we should embody the values of the covenant in our homes and communities. We can create spaces where love, understanding, and faith flourish. As parents, we are called to be the first teachers of our children in the ways of faith, just as Joachim and Anne were to Mary. Next, we can practice “Blessed Sight” daily. This requires a conscious decision to fast from the digital noise that surrounds us. In a world filled with distractions, it is vital to carve out moments of silence, reflection, and prayer. By doing so, we can train our eyes to see the beauty of God’s creation and the presence of Christ in our lives. Finally, let us proclaim the blood-sealed promise to those who are despairing. We are called to be messengers of hope in a world that often feels hopeless. When we encounter those who are suffering, let us remind them that God’s covenant is alive and active. We can share stories of how God’s faithfulness has transformed our lives, offering assurance that He is with us in our darkest moments.

On this Parents’ Day, let us honor the legacy of Saints Joachim and Anne by embracing our roles as parents, guardians, and mentors. Let us commit to nurturing the faith of the next generation, reminding them of the covenant that binds us to God and to one another. May we cultivate the blessed sight that allows us to see God’s hand at work in our lives and in the lives of those around us.

In conclusion, let us remember the significance of the blood of the covenant and the eyes that see. May we embrace our calling to live out this covenant in our daily lives, becoming vessels of God’s love and grace. As we honor the gifts of parenthood today, let us also renew our commitment to God and to each other, recognizing the sacred bond that unites us as a community of faith. Amen.

St. John Chrysostom: “The blood of Sinai became ink, writing God’s law on stone. Christ’s Blood writes His law on our hearts.”

St. Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein): “At Mass, Sinai’s covenant becomes flesh on our tongues. We become what we receive.”

Pope St. John Paul II: “The Eucharist is the new Sinai! Here, God’s glory lives among us” (Ecclesia de Eucharistia, 5).

St. John Paul II: “Obedience of faith is the doorway to divine intimacy” (Veritatis Splendor, 21).

St. Thérèse of Lisieux: “I am but a child, yet my eyes see the King of Heaven on the altar. What greater blessing could there be?”