By Tarsish Marak, CSC –
Readings: Rom 2:1-11; Lk 11:42-46
Today’s readings bring great messages of love and discipleship. St. Paul, in his letter to the Romans, tells us to fulfil the law of the Lord by obeying and practicing the commandments of God in our daily journey. ‘Love one another’ is an invitation for us to offer our life to our neighbours and the people of God without any expectation.
Jesus showed his love for humanity by giving up his life on the cross. He felt sorry because people did not have love for one another and therefore he reminded us to love one another as we love ourselves. In the Gospel reading Jesus invites us to renounce everything and follow him. He asks us to take up the discipleship.
In this modern technological world, it is a challenging task for everyone to take up the discipleship. But discipleship doesn’t mean that we need to give up and forget everything. It means that we should not possess and misuse the things that are available but to use them for the betterment of our life. And it challenges us that in spite of having everything, how can we be connected and focused on Christ who is our Redeemer. Yes, this 21st century is tempting; but can we prioritize and possess Christ in our daily life?
So, the invitation for us is to go through the difficulties and the things which makes us to go astray and strengthen ourselves against the weakness. The grace of Almighty God is more powerful than the presence of the Evil. Therefore, let us trust in the presence of the divine providence and surrender all that we possess; and ask the Lord to create a pure heart in us.