Blasphemy In today’s Gospel, Luke 12:8-12, Jesus solemnly warns, “Whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven.” Blasphemy, or speaking disrespectfully about God, constitutes a grave offense. Blasphemy encompasses verbal or written rebukes of God’s name, character, work or attributes, as well as irreverence toward sacred objects or places. In the Old Testament, […]
Monthly Archives: October 2024
17
Oct
Oct
Barrier to kindness and unity Ephesians 1:1-10, Psalm 98, Luke 11:47-54 Today’s Gospel presents a stark reminder of Jesus’ condemnation of hypocrisy, specifically addressing the lawyers who hindered the people’s relationship with God. Jesus emphatically declares, “Woe to you lawyers!” highlighting the danger of prioritizing legalism over compassion. How often do we, too, allow trivial […]
16
Oct
Oct
Living by the Spirit Galatians 5:18-25, Psalm 1, Luke 11:42-46 Today’s reading from Galatians underscores the significance of our baptismal commitment to Christ, which necessitates crucifying the flesh with its passions. As baptized Christians, we are called to transcend our human inclinations toward comfort, pleasure, and sin. This requires a deliberate effort, facilitated by faith, […]
15
Oct
Oct
Genuine Faith Galatians 5:1-6; Psalm 118; Luke 11:37-41 Today’s liturgy reminds us that authentic faith surpasses external manifestations. Jesus’ interaction with the Pharisees underscores the disparity between mere religious ritual and sincere devotion. As St. Paul emphasizes in his letter to the Galatians, spiritual purity is paramount. In Christ Jesus, faith that expresses itself through […]
14
Oct
Oct
SEEK JESUS, NOT SIGNS Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31-5:1; Psalm 113; Luke 11:29-32 As we gather today, we reflect on Jesus’ words: “This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” (Luke 11:29) In our world, the pursuit of signs and […]
12
Oct
Oct
Choosing Eternal life Wisdom 7:7-11; Psalm 90; Hebrews 4:12-13; Mark 10:17-30 Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai Today’s readings invite us to reflect on the fundamental theme of choice. As Christians, we are constantly faced with decisions, some straightforward and others profoundly challenging. The most crucial choice we can make is to prioritize God above all else. Failure […]
12
Oct
Oct
From Praise to Action Galatians 3:22-29; Psalm 105; Luke 11:27-28 Today’s Gospel narrative presents a poignant moment where a woman from the crowd exclaims, “Blessed is the womb that bore you and the breasts that nursed you!” (Luke 11:27). This spontaneous declaration reflects how eternal truth emerges in unexpected places. Do we listen attentively or […]
10
Oct
Oct
Persistent Prayer Galatians 3:1-5; Psalm 111; Luke In the midst of life’s troubles and worries, we are encouraged to persistently stir up petitions, just like the neighbour who asked for a loaf of bread at midnight in the gospel. Our Lord assures us, “For everyone who knocks, the door will be opened” (Luke 11:10). Through […]
09
Oct
Oct
Embracing the Power of Prayer Galatians 2:1-2, 7-14; Ps.117, Luke 11:1-4 Today’s Gospel presents Jesus as the ultimate model of prayerful devotion. As He teaches His disciples the Lord’s Prayer, we are reminded of the transformative power of prayer. Jesus begins with “Our Father” (Luke 11:2), acknowledging God’s paternal love and care. This prayer encapsulates […]
08
Oct
Oct
The Good Portion Galatians 1:13-24, Psalm 139, Luke 10:38-42 Today’s Gospel presents a poignant encounter between Jesus and the sisters Martha and Mary. While Martha was consumed by hospitality, Mary chose to sit at Jesus’ feet, absorbing His words. Jesus commended Mary, saying, “She has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away […]