October 21, Friday, 29th Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: Ephesians 4:1-6 & Luke 12:54-59
In today’s gospel, Jesus admonishes the people for their lack of discernment of the present times, the presence of the Messiah, and the kingdom in their midst, even as they are experts in predicting the weather and the changes in nature.
We might think that this was peculiar to the time of Jesus only. Not so. This is the situation in which we are. We are experts in many natural and worldly things, but when it comes to spiritual matters, our understanding of our faith, and the love of God, we are found wanting.
The result is often quarrels and descension, conflicts, and wars. Jesus tells us to be more discerning, thoughtful, and wise about more essential things that concern our lives.
Today, litigation, accusing others, and taking them to court have become so common that the courts have thousands of cases piling up, and the judicial system is slow to deliver justice to those who need it. Justice delayed is justice denied. In this context, it is essential to heed the words of Jesus to settle matters with our opponents rather than take them to court. We could try to deal with conflicts and quarrels amicably and by mutual settlement. That will make life less burdensome, more peaceful, and happier.
The words of St Paul, which we heard in the first reading, contain how best we can live our Christian vocation. “Be humble, kind, patient, and bear with one another in love." He encourages us to make every effort to preserve unity through the bonds of peace because we share the same faith and baptism and have a common Father-God. And we all share the same hope in God as the goal of our lives.
Both readings are invitations to order our lives not according to worldly standards and worldly wisdom but according to the spirit of Christ. He has chosen us to live in him, a dash of reconciliation and peace. This is our sure way to holiness and our life with God. May the Eucharist we celebrate fill us with the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and strengthen our resolve to live a life that is pleasing to him.
What are the signs in my life that indicate my closeness to Christ?
Radio Veritas Asia (RVA), a media platform of the Catholic Church, aims to share Christ. RVA started in 1969 as a continental Catholic radio station to serve Asian countries in their respective local language, thus earning the tag “the Voice of Asian Christianity.” Responding to the emerging context, RVA embraced media platforms to connect with the global Asian audience via its 21 language websites and various social media platforms.
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