Saturday of the 9th week in the ordinary time of the year A
Theme: Angel Raphaels message
In the 1st reading of today from the Book of Tobit, we see how Tobit told his son to appreciate the man who returned with him, by sharing the gifts they came back with. This points out the fact that he did not know that it was Angel Raphael that came to their aid. The message of the Angel is something that is worthy to be reflected on today. The message of the Angel was simple and straight forward. He told them what he wants them to do in appreciation for what God has done for them, because he does not need a gift from them.
The Angel told them to thank God and appreciate him for what he has done for them. The emphasis is thanksgiving and appreciation for what God has done for them. Do good and evil will not overtake you. He also said that prayer is good when accompanied by fasting, almsgiving, and righteousness. We are encouraged to embrace righteousness instead of wrongdoing. Almsgiving is a necessity in our lives because it attracts the blessings of God to us, and those who commit sin destroy their own lives.
Lastly, the Angel also pointed out the fact that he was aware of all the things that Tobit and Sarah was going through and he presented it to God. The dead man that was reported to Tobit when he was supposed to have his dinner, was a test that he passed. So, God mandated Angel Raphael to come and heal Tobit and his daughter in-law Sarah. The Angel left them after introducing himself as one of the seven holy Angels of God.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, the message presented to us by Angel Raphael today should strengthen our resolve to serve God. We must try to always practice generosity and embrace righteousness in our life. The three pillars of Lent are greatly emphasized here, prayer, fasting and almsgiving. This should be a way of life for us, and not practice limited to the season of Lent. He also pointed out the fact that the message about the dead man was to test Tobit. But because Tobit was an upright man, he did not fail the test, he left his dinner and went ahead to bury the dead man first.
Dear friends in Christ, some of the challenges we face in life may just be a test to find out if we will remain steadfast in our faith, do not fail the test. 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.