By Amala William csc –
Readings: 1Cor 7:25-31; Lk 6:20-26
In the first reading, St. Paul reminds the people of Corinth about the appointed time. He invites both married and unmarried people to live a life of holiness by turning away from their cozy ways towards a life of simplicity. In the gospel, we have the Lukan version of the Beatitudes. It consists of four “Blessings and Woes”.
The first part of the Gospel comforts and encourages the poor, marginalized, abandoned, and the needy. The second part scares the plentiful and wealthy who squander their abundance without a care.
The readings of the day focus upon the theme- ‘a call to change.’ This change is to challenge our lifestyle. Often, the change I like to see is from others rather than thyself. In the society we have both rich and poor. When the rich in their abundance share their wealth to the needy it builds relationships and the poor see the work of God through them. To see this change in society, one needs to have a higher conscience. I was reminded of Gandhi’s quote ‘Be the change you wish to see in the world’.
Looking at the present times, I feel that the system and governance are not acting upon the needs of the people. I am reminded to ask myself, what impact can I do in society? The situation will never change for the better, unless I bring those changes in my daily life. As a Christian, the change must be in line with the faith and teachings of Christ. Let us ask assistance of the Holy Spirit that we may be open to responding adequately to the new reality.