Sirach 48:1-4, 9-11; Psalm 80; Matthew 17:10-13
The first reading reminds us of Elijah and all he did. In line with this theme when Jesus spoke to the disciples about Elijah the Gospel reading says they understood that he was speaking to them about John the Baptist. Though John had all the traits of Elijah; John is not Elijah reincarnated and it does not suggest reincarnation. Many people still believe in reincarnation today. The doctrine of the Church teaches that when our earthly life is completed, we shall not return to other earthly lives. Hebrews 9:27 says “it is appointed for men once to die and after that comes judgment. Therefore, there is no reincarnation after death. Rather we are challenged by both readings to recognize who is truly a prophet.
Let us pray
God of hosts, turn again, we implore, look down from heaven and see. Visit this vine and protect it, the vine your right hand has planted. May your hand be on the man you have chosen, the man you have given your strength. And we shall never forsake you again; give us life that we may call upon your name. God of hosts, bring us back; let your face shine on us and we shall be saved.
