GOD’S WORD FOR THE DAY (based on Catholic Liturgical Readings)
DATE: 29TH OCTOBER 2016
SATURDAY OF THE 30TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
1ST READING: Philippians 1:18-26
PSALM: Psalm 42:2-3, 5
GOSPEL: Luke 14:1, 7-11
THEME: TO LIVE IS CHRIST
Tertullian, a second century Christian, writes, “Prison is for the Christian what the wilderness is for the prophet”. Deprived of material goods and comfort, the early Christians who underwent the unpleasant experience of being thrown into prison on account of their faith deepened their consciousness of being one with Christ and living solely for him. Those who came out of prison were visibly marked by that spiritual experience and those who were martyred, faced their death with deep serenity.
Paul wrote his letter to the Church in Philippi while a prisoner. Knowing very well the dynamics of the Roman legal system, he foresaw two possibilities in the given situation – he would either be released or sent to die (martyr). He weighed both options and subsequently wrote in his letter, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I am to live on in the flesh, this will mean fruitful labor for me; and I do not know which to choose. But I am hard-pressed from both directions, having the desire to depart and be with Christ, for that is very much better; yet to remain on in the flesh is more necessary for your sake” (Phi 1:21-24).
Paul put himself completely in the hands of God and this gave him the confidence to face the uncertain outcome of the trial. He thus stands out as a model of selfless dedication to the Gospel, one who was totally available for Christ.
As Christians, the events of our lives, both pleasant and unpleasant, are meaningful in union with Christ. When we live our lives no longer for ourselves but for Christ, the events of our lives become purposeful; nothing happens by chance or accident. Even what appears as an accident fits into a divine master plan of God.
“To live is Christ” is an expression of selflessness. It is a holocaust of one’s own will and a total surrender to the will of Christ.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, you gave your all to me on the cross. Here and now, I also give you my all. I am yours for all eternity. Amen
Andrews Obeng, svd
DIVINE WORD MISSIONARIES
BIBLICAL PASTORAL MINISTRY
(Ghana Province)
“May the darkness of sin and the night of unbelief vanish before the light of the Word and the Spirit of grace. And may the heart of Jesus live in the hearts of all people” (St. Arnold Janssen).