Wednesday of the 11th week in the ordinary time
Theme: Our piety
In the gospel reading of today, Jesus admonishes us in a very special way about how we practice our piety. This is very important at this time, taking into consideration the fact that what we do today is more of acting and getting all our acclamations from people. Jesus is saying to us today that true piety should be done in secret and our father who sees everything will reward us accordingly. This is different from the popular practice that we see all around us now, especially as people give alms to the less privileged in our society. However, this does not downplay in any way those who celebrate their generousity on the social media; they will also receive their reward. The most important thing is modesty in anything we are doing, that way we will not take the glory that belongs to God.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, the three examples presented by Jesus, should serve as a guide to all of us as we practice true piety.
In the 1st reading of today, Elisha requested for double portion of the spirit of Elijah and God granted his request. He was given the opportunity to make a request by the prophet Elijah, and God granted his heart desire. He did not request for riches or for power, but rather double portion of the spirit of Elijah. Given the same opportunity in our own time, how many of us will make the same type of request? My brothers and sisters in Christ, when we make requests that are selfless, God has a way of giving us far more than we have requested for from him. A similar situation is that of Solomon, who requested for wisdom to lead his people. The choices we make in such a situation will show what really matters most to us as children of God.
May God grant us the grace to make the right choices at all times in our life. May almighty God bless you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.