MONDAY OF THE 34TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME OF THE YEAR
Celebration: Ferial
Table of the Word
First Reading: Daniel 1:1–6, 8–20
Gospel: Luke 21:1–4
Theme: Faithfulness in Little Things...
Reflection
Today’s Gospel pericope taken from Luke 21:1–4 presents one of the most tender and penetrating scenes in all of Scripture: the poor widow’s offering. While others give from overflow, she offers “all she had to live on.” Jesus in commendation praises her not for the amount, but for the totality of her trust. Her gift is a quiet act of surrender, a heart entirely given to God. She represents every believer who serves God not with abundance, but with fidelity and courage, not only about treasure, but with time and talent
The first reading on the other hand taken from.the prophecy of Daniel 1:1–6, 8–20 echoes this same spirit of faithfulness. Here we see Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah who chose fidelity to God over the comforts and expectations of Babylon. They refuse to defile themselves and remain steadfast even when their decision puts them at personal risk. Yet God rewards their courage with wisdom, favour, and extraordinary endurance.
However, these readings together illustrate a timeless truth: The strength of a disciple is measured not by what they possess, but by what they are willing to surrender for the service God and humanity.
To buttress this with respect to the Memorial of St. Andrew Dũng-Lạc and the Vietnamese Martyrs, this theme reaches its fullest expression in the life of these great men of faith, who accepted the way of God instead of ofbthe way of men. Their fidelity was not displayed through abundance, but through the offering of their very lives. They lived in a time when being a Christian meant living under constant threat. They remained steadfast in prayer, charity, and service. Their faithfulness was forged in small daily sacrifices long before the moment of martyrdom.
Through the Scriptures and the martyrs’ example, the Lord whispers today: “Be faithful in the small things. Your quiet sacrifices, hidden fidelity, and simple offerings are precious to Me. In your weakness, My strength is perfected.”
Beloved in Christ, as we celebrate the memorial of the martydom of this great men of faith, let the lesson of the poor widow, Daniel’s companions, and the martyrs all teach us that true greatness is born in hidden fidelity.
+ Peace be with you.
© ARCHIVE 24112025
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