Celebration: Ferial
Table of the Word
First Reading: Romans 9:1–5
Gospel: Luke 14:1–6
Theme: Mercy, the Language of God.
Reflection
As we have come to the end of the 10th month in the year (2025) following the Gregorian Calendar, we are invited to pause awhile today to reflect on the unfathomable mercy of God that has brought us this far. It is on account of this, that today’s readings call to mind the tender mystery of divine compassion: a love that weeps, heals, and redeems.
In the First Reading following St Paul's epistle to the Roman Church (Romans 9:1–5); he speaks with deep anguish for his people, Israel: “I have great sorrow and unceasing anguish in my heart… for the sake of my own people.” (Romans 9:2–3)
This is not mere emotion, but an ache of a heart that shares in the mercy of Christ. Paul’s longing mirrors the very heart of Jesus, who wept over Jerusalem and yearned for the salvation of all.
Here, we glimpse the true measure of apostolic love: to love souls as Christ loves them, even to the point of personal sacrifice. Paul’s lament is the cry of every true shepherd and disciple who refuses to give up on humanity, no matter how far it wanders.
In the Gospel lesson of today taken from Luke 14:1–6, Jesus heals a man suffering from dropsy on the Sabbath. The religious leaders watch closely, ready to accuse Him. Yet, Jesus’ question cuts through their legalism: “Is it lawful to cure on the Sabbath or not?”
When they remain silent, He heals the man revealing that the law of love surpasses every human boundary. That is to say, God’s love abounds through the grace brought about by Christ’s paschal mystery of passion, death and resurrection.
The Sabbath, a sign of divine rest, finds its truest meaning in the mercy of God. Jesus shows that authentic holiness is not rigid but responsive, not obsessed with rules, but moved by compassion.
To act mercifully is to act as God acts. Mercy is not weakness; it is the strength of divine love made visible in human kindness. On account of this, we are invited to reciprocate this kind gesture of God to our neighbours, as St. Ambrose declares: “When you are merciful, you are imitating God. Mercy is the garment of divinity wrapped around humanity.”
However, today's Gospel is thus not a rejection of law, but a revelation of its soul that every divine command finds its fulfillment in love (cf. Romans 13:10).
Beloved in Christ Jesus, let compassion lead your actions. Rules matter, but love gives them meaning.
Finally, let us cultivate apostolic concern. Like Paul, let our hearts ache for others, intercede, reconcile, and reach out.
As God divinely whispers; “The measure of your love is not what you keep, but what you give away in mercy.”
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 31102025
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