MONDAY, THIRTEENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Gn 18: 16-33 Ps 103: 1-4, 8-11 Mt 8: 18-22
BECOMING CHANNELS OF GOD’S MERCY
The first reading presents the circumstances leading to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. The Lord says to Abraham that the outcry of suffering from these cities has been great. As the three men set out to see if the situation is as grave as it sounds, the Lord remains with Abraham and engages in a discussion with him. ‘If God could find a remnant of righteous people among them, would God forgive the wicked people of Sodom and not destroy the city?’ The central principle is that the righteousness of a few can redeem the whole. God declares that He is ready to forgive the whole city, if even ten righteous people could be found. He tends towards mercy and forgiveness, in answer to the prayers of the righteous.
This belief in God’s willingness to hear and consider the pleas for mercy and deliverance helps in establishing the rich Jewish and Christian traditions of intercessory prayer. How often do I pray for my family, community, friends, and country? Just as Abraham interceded for Sodom, we are invited to seek God’s justice and mercy for those in need. In his book The Church of Mercy: A Vision for the Church, Pope Francis tells us: “Jesus shows us this merciful patience of God so that we can regain confidence, hope—always!”
The responsorial psalm sings praises to God, who does not treat us as our sins deserve but shows us boundless love and forgiveness. The psalmist invites us to cultivate a habit of praising God with a thankful heart and to acknowledge His merciful love in our lives. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about the cost of discipleship. He urges us to prioritize above everything else our commitment to follow Him. We are invited to follow God’s will with an undivided heart, and to make meaningful choices in our daily lives that make us channels of His mercy and compassion.
Response: The Lord is compassionate and gracious
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