FRIDAY OF THE FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Mystery of the day: Sorrowful
Celebration of the day: Ferial
Table of the Word
RI.Hebrews 13:1-8
Resp. Psalm: Psalm 27:1.3.5.8c-9abc (R. 1a)
Gospel: Mark 6:14-29
Theme: ...some have entertained angels unawares.
Reflection
From today's table of the Word, the first reading offers exhortations and encouragements for a sound Christian living on the theme of love and community living; hospitality which our central theme is extracted from; compassion and support; marriage and morality; contentment as well as leadership. These multiple themes are but subsumed in the first which is love and community living.
However, the author who at the beginning encouraged us to let mutual love continue; and further emohasizes the importance of love within the Christian community.
On the other hand, he highlighted the essence of hospitality to the strangers which he said: " ...some have entertained angels unawares." (Hebrews 13:1). This is a solemn call not to neglect showing hospitality to strangers because in them dwells the image and likeness of God. Thus, we are serving God-in-man.
However, "the virtue of love" is the hub of our reflection, thereby calling to mind God who first loves us. As the central theme goes, the importance of welcoming and showing kindness to those who are outsiders, marginalized or ill-treated is highly emphasized.
In our daily endeavours, what is the kind of treatment do we measure out for ourselves, friends and associates? And what is the measure meant for those at the edges of our streets, the weak and vulnerable around us?
It is on account of this, that we are exhorted to love one another as God who is our Heavenly Father loves us (cf. Luke 6:36).
This can only be achieved when we keep true to the Word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart. There and then will it bring forth living fruits (Luke 8:15); as the gospel acclamation proclaimed.
Finally, beloved in Christ Jesus, as Jesus our Lord and master remains eternal and the light unto our path, let us in reciprocation to this kind gesture give out a leaning shoulder to others who are weak, make sincere effort to wipe their tears through consoling words and act of charity. It is in doing this that our righteousness will supercedes that of the Scribes and Pharisees.
Peace be with you and + May the Lord bless His words in our hearts. Amen.
Let us pray
Eternal Word, you are the light and salvation of our souls. We thank you for many blessings you bestowed upon us. Grant we pray the grace to be contented with what we are blessed. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever. Amen
© The ARCHIVE 07022025
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