The Word: Jesus told his disciples, "If any man would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it." (see Matthew 16:24-28)
Mystery of the day: Sorrowful
Celebration of the day: Ferial
Table of the Word: I R.: Nahum 1:15;2:2; 3:1-3.6-7
Resp. Psalm: Deuteronomy 32:35cd-36ab.39abcd.41 (R. 39c)
Verse before the Gospel: Matthew 5:10
Gospel: Matthew 16:24-28
Inspiration:
"Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father’s glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.'" (Matthew 16:24-28)
This text captures God's invitation to let go our excesses and then journey on the path of life through self denial.
However, letting go of one's own desires and interests has to do with embracing humility and surrendering our strength and weaknesses to God. It is an act of prioritizing Jesus' teachings and will above one's own comfort; knowing fully well that nothing absolutely last forever except that which is in Christ Jesus. As the Psalmist says: "I kill and I make alive." ( Deuteronomy 32:39c)
This is being willing to sacrifice and take up one's cross while recognizing that true life is found in following Jesus, not in pursuing worldly gain.
In the course of today's liturgy of the Word, our Lord in the first reading emphasizes that self-denial is essential for: Authentic discipleship, Spiritual growth, Eternal life, and Receiving rewards from God.
Finally, in practicing self-denial we can: Develop a deeper relationship with God, find true purpose and meaning, experience spiritual transformation and then become more like Jesus. Let us therefore remember that, self-denial is not about self-destruction, but about surrendering to God's will and finding life in Him.
Peace be with you!
Let us pray
Almighty and eternal God, we are grateful to You for the gift of life and all the favours in it. As we journeying toward our home in You keep us we pray safe with the grace to deny ourself by accepting the path You choose for us. Who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen
© The ARCHIVE 09082024
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