By Jacob Perikala csc –
Readings: Bar 5:1-9; Phil 1:4-6, 8-11; Lk 3:1-6
The first reading invites us to imbibe the qualities of God in our lives so that we can rejoice in helping others. As his faithful followers, we must find joy in the sight of God.
In the second reading, St. Paul is sharing his joy with the faithful like Jesus who began the work of proclamation of the kingdom of God. He is urging us to pray more so that we can come to know the will of God in our lives. In the gospel reading, we are assured of salvation if we mend our ways to meet the expectations of God. Every human being is expected to love God as well as others.
Today, everyone is tempted in many ways. God wants everyone to be saved. Through the prophets, our family members, and friends, he is reminding us to change our lives and walk in the right direction. We need to take initiative to save ourselves. God will not come to us in glorious forms, but through simple people such as family members, superiors, and friends or some others who love me. When we heed their voice and walk in the right direction, God surely will save us.
In order to continue to walk in the path that is expected of us, we need to cultivate the habit of personal prayer which can be instrumental in decision-making process in our lives. Everything is in our hands. Let us renew ourselves every day in our lives and try to come closer to God in our own little ways.