22nd Week of Ordinary Time

3rd September 2023 22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Reflection

Jeremiah 20:7-9, Romans 12:1-2, Matthew 16:21-27

“Living for God's Kingdom”

"What, then, will anyone gain by winning the whole world and forfeiting his life?" Jesus tells us clearly that our lives are not meant for winning and gaining power, status, or prestige. As His followers, we follow His footsteps by losing, giving our lives for a greater cause and making a difference in the lives of others. We no longer conform to the ways of the world that fight to have domination and power over others. As St. Paul states in the second reading, we are to offer ourselves as a pleasing sacrifice to God by dedicating ourselves to bringing His Kingdom of love, peace and service to our family, parish, faith community and society. In the first reading, the Prophet Jeremiah remained faithful to speaking against the corruption and injustice in Israel despite being attacked and rejected. Indeed, the path of discipleship is not easy. Are we ready to embrace it, as the Prophet Jeremiah did?

As we pray with today's readings, let us examine our commitment to follow Jesus and accept the demands of being His disciples. May we have the courage and faithfulness to transform the places where we are to be reflections of God's Kingdom.

Reflective question:

What does it mean for me to live as Jesus' disciple?

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4th September 2023 Monday 22nd Week of Ordinary Time

Reflection

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, Luke 4:16-30

“Sent by God to others”

"The spirit of the Lord is on me, for he has anointed me to bring the good news to the afflicted. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives…" In the gospel today, Jesus recognised that it was God His Father, who was the one who sent Him to mission. Out of love for His Father, Jesus preached the Good News to those who needed to know about God's love, opened the eyes of the blind to see God's active presence in the world and gave freedom to those burdened with sin. Even though He faced rejection, He remained faithful to God's mission to the end.

Today, let us know that God also sends us on a mission. Each of us has the task of making a difference in the lives of the people around us. Our words can heal the wounds of people. Our acts of service can help others in their needs. Our sickness can bring life to others. Let us humbly ask Jesus to enkindle in us the joy of being sent as His instruments.

Reflective question:

Am I aware that God has made me for a mission?