Thursday of the 10th week in ordinary time
1 Kings 18: 41-46 Mathew 5: 20-26
Theme: A call to reconciliation and forgiveness
Today the church celebrates the memorial of St. Anthony of Padua. He is known for his passion and zeal to preach the word of God; he was an Augustinian. In the gospel reading of today, Jesus encourages us to live a life that is deeply rooted in the love of neighbour. This will help us to build our relationships in such a way that it will be pleasing to God and promote our co-existence without rancour and bitterness. As humans we can make mistakes from time to time, but we must do all within our power to work for reconciliation and peace. Also, when people offend us, we must be disposed to also forgive them; in that way we will be able to live a life that is pleasing to God and will also promote the quality of our discipleship.
This same love that Jesus is inviting us to practice in our lives is seen in a very special way in the 1st reading of today. We see the depth of God’s love for his people Israel through the instrumentality of the prophet Elijah. The Lord opened the heavens and brought down rain for his people, through the prophet Elijah. This points out the fact that with the proper disposition towards God and faith in God, we can become worthy instruments in the hand of God. Just like we see the prophet doing exploits in the name of God. All of us as children of God can do exploits for God just like the prophet Elijah, with faith in God and the proper disposition towards the things of God.
Dear friends in Christ, one thing we must reflect on today is, what is that thing in our life that is keeping us away from been worthy instrument in the hand of God: just like the prophet Elijah? Through the instrumentality of the prophet Elijah, the people were able to get rain after three years. There is nothing God cannot do for all those who trust in him. It is for us to trust in God and live like through children of God that we are called to be. As we resolve to do this, 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.