TUESDAY, NINTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
2 Pt 3: 12-15,17-18; Ps 90:2-4,10,14,16; Mk 12: 13-17
NEW HEAVENS, NEW EARTH
In the first reading, Peter talks of “waiting.” What are we waiting and longing for, hungering and thirsting for? He says that “we wait for a new heaven and a new earth, in which justice reigns, according to God’s promise.” And again “do your best to live blameless lives.” He emphasizes the importance of living a holy life in anticipation of Christ’s return. We are called to be blameless and at peace, prepared for the day of the Lord.
This message resonates with the Gospel of the day where Jesus confronts the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees. They meticulously follow religious laws but lack genuine love for God and neighbour. The Gospel asks us to take every event, every person, every situation to Jesus and he will show us the Father; and the most repugnant piece of earth, be it what it may – a person, a thing, an occasion, will become a new heaven for us. Both readings challenge us to examine our own lives. Are we living with integrity, aligning our actions with our beliefs? Do we prioritize outward appearances or a sincere relationship with God? The Gospel reminds us that true discipleship goes beyond following rules. It involves living with authenticity and compassion, like the widow who offered her meagre savings.
We can cultivate integrity by being honest in our dealings, treating others with respect, and striving to live according to our values. We can avoid hypocrisy by ensuring our actions match our words. When faced with difficult choices, we can ask ourselves: “Would I do this if everyone knew?” This simple question can be a powerful guide towards living with authenticity. The call to live with integrity is not a burden, but a liberation. It frees us from the need to pretend or deceive. It allows us to build genuine relationships and live a life that is pleasing to God. As we strive for integrity, we become a beacon of hope and inspiration for those around us.
Response: O Lord, you have been our refuge, from generation to generation.
Copyright ©2024 ©Springs of Living Water http://springs.carmelmedia.in