TRUE VALUES
Isaiah 54:1-10; Psalm 30; Luke 7:24-30
Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: “What did you go out into the wilderness to look at?” This same question is directed to us. What do we go out to see? Where lies our interest? Why do we go to Church? What are our true values? In John, virtues, spiritual principles, and simplicity are expressed. What can be stated of us right now?
Along with his message of repentance, John the Baptist lived proof that we are all sojourners on this planet. In order to draw others to his message, he denied himself of the comforts of this life. Despite John the Baptist’s greatness, Jesus nevertheless claims that the least in the kingdom of heaven is superior to him.
This suggests that heaven is significantly dissimilar from the earth. We must work hard since it is difficult to enter heaven. Luke 13:24 Try to enter by the narrow door since many people will try to enter but will be unsuccessful, I assure you.
We ask for God’s mercy in the first reading because Isaiah promises that he will have compassion on us out of his tremendous love and everlasting affection. Lord, have pity on us and heal us.
LET US PRAY
Unworthy servants that we are, O Lord, grieved by the guilt of our deeds, we pray that you may gladden us by the saving advent of your Only Begotten Son. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Fr Daniel Evbotokhai
