Tuesday of the 25th week in ordinary time
Proverbs 21: 1-6.10-13 Luke 8: 19-21
Theme: An inclusive family
In the gospel reading of today from St. Luke, Jesus presents to us an inclusive definition of his family. It is such that transcends blood ties, but rather encompasses all those who make the choice to live their lives as children of God. According to Jesus Christ in today’s gospel, his family are all those who hear the word of God and keep it. By implication, whether you belong to the family of God or not, is dependent on the choices you make and the way you live your life. This definition presented to us by Jesus in the gospel is obviously not a very easy one, taking into consideration all that is happening in our world today. This is because, the word of God is heard almost daily by so many people, yet our society is getting worse by the day. In view of this, one can say that so many of us are hearing the word of God, but we are not putting them into practice in our daily lives. So, our liturgy today is encouraging all of us as children of God, to make honest and sincere effort to put into practice the word of God that we hear at different times in our lives.
The assertion of Jesus in today’s gospel reading is speaking to all of us in different ways. Let us make effort today to begin to practice the word of God that we hear in the church and in different places. We are all encouraged today to practice the word of God in our daily lives and enthrone God’s presence in our world. This is an opportunity presented to all of us as his children today, let us make effort and begin to live our lives as members of God’s household. It is never too late to retrace our steps and embrace the ways of God in our daily lives. All we need to make this happen in our lives is to make that bold step of faith and leave the rest to God. No matter what you may have passed through or still passing through in your life, just trust God and give him the opportunity to come into your life and take control. Remember, we are talking about a God that does not give up on anyone of us but is always willing and ready to give us another opportunity to become a better person.
Dearly beloved in Christ, as we resolve to make the right choices in life, let us do all within our power, trusting in the grace and mercy of God. In the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.