Celebration: Ferial
Table of the Word
First Reading: Joel 1:13–15; 2:1–2
Gospel: Luke 11:15–26
Theme: Blessed Are Those Who Hear and Keep God’s Word.
Reflection
The prophet Joel sounds an urgent call: “Gird yourselves and lament… for the day of the Lord is near.” (Joel 1:13–15). His message awakens Israel to repentance in the face of impending divine judgment. The “day of the Lord” is not merely a historical event but a spiritual reality, a time of reckoning, purification, and renewal.
In the Gospel reading (Luke 11:15–26), Jesus confronts those who accuse Him of casting out demons by Beelzebul. His reply reveals a deep spiritual truth: “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste.” (Lk 11:17). The enemy’s tactic is division, within the heart, the Church, and the world. Christ, the Stronger One, restores unity by His Word and Spirit. Yet He warns that deliverance is not enough: the cleansed soul must be filled with God’s presence lest evil return stronger than before. We ought to be active with God's Word as St. James said: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” (James 1:22).
However, taking a look at the teaching of the Church, the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that vigilance and interior conversion are essential to prayer and spiritual warfare. A distracted or divided heart becomes fertile ground for the adversary (cf. CCC 2730–2731, 2708).
Hence, the Church urges constant renewal through confession, Eucharistic communion, and fidelity to Scripture. It is in the light of this, that St. Gregory the Great once wrote: “When the mind is empty of good thoughts, it becomes a lodging place for the devil.”
Brethren, today's lesson invites us to renew our commitment to daily Scripture and meditation let the Word dwell richly in you (cf. Col 3:16).
Finally, guard your heart from spiritual emptiness through confession, prayer, and good works.
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 10102025
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