MONDAY OF THE 31ST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR
Celebration: Ferial
Table of the Word
First Reading: Romans 11:29–36
Gospel: Luke 14:12–14
Theme: The Call to Humble Service.
Reflection
In today’s Gospel taken from Luke 14:12–14, Jesus challenges the conventional social order of His time and ours by instructing His followers not to invite friends, relatives, or the wealthy to their banquets, but rather the poor, the crippled, the lame, and the blind. This teaching pierces through our natural human tendency toward reciprocity and reward. Christ calls for a radical love that mirrors the gratuitous generosity of God Himself a love that gives without expectation of return.
In the first reading, St. Paul marvels at the unsearchable wisdom and mercy of God, "For the gifts and the call of God are irrevocable.” This verse echoes through the ages as a reminder that God’s covenant fidelity remains steadfast, even when human hearts falter (cf. Romans 11:29–36).
Beloved in Christ Jesus, today we are called to imitate His generosity and humility. Divine love is not transactional; it is transformative. When we love and serve those who cannot repay us, we reflect the face of God who gives freely, not for gain, but out of love.
However, Jesus redefines greatness not as prestige or privilege but as participation in divine compassion. In this sense, the banquet of the Kingdom is not reserved for the deserving but for the dependent; not for the powerful, but for the poor.
Finally, God gently reminds us:
“Do not serve for repayment; serve for love. Invite not those who can elevate your status, but those who can awaken your compassion. In giving to the least, you give to Me.”
Keeping in mind the words of St. Vincent De Paul that: "It is in giving that we receive."
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 03112025
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