SATURDAY, TWENTY FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Memorial of Saint Euphrasia
1 Thes 4:9-11 Ps 98:1,7-9 Mt 25:14-30
BE FRUITFUL FOR LOVE
Paul commends the community for their exemplary brotherly love, which reflects their deep understanding of Christian discipleship. He acknowledges that their love for one another is not merely a human virtue but a divine gift, taught by God Himself. However, Paul does not stop at praise; he exhorts them to “excel still more” in their love, urging them to live quietly, mind their own affairs, and work diligently. Authentic Christian love is not passive but active; it requires practical expression in daily life.
The responsorial psalm celebrates God’s marvelous deeds which reveal His unconditional love for His people. As Christians, our love for others is not self-generated but a response to the love we have first received from God. Just as the psalm calls for joyful praise, our lives should echo God’s love through acts of mercy, kindness, and justice. This divine love is the foundation of all human love; when we recognize how deeply we are loved by God, we are empowered to love others without reservation. The psalm thus reminds us that true love flows from gratitude for God’s gifts.
Jesus’ parable of the talents illustrates that love for others is expressed through the faithful stewardship of God’s gifts. The master entrusts his servants with varying talents, not for hoarding but for fruitful investment. The first two servants, who double their talents, exemplify love as active engagement – using their blessings to glorify God and serve others. In contrast, the third servant, who buries his talent, represents a failure to love, rooted in fear and complacency. Jesus’ message is clear: love requires courage, creativity, and responsibility. We are called to multiply God’s graces for the good of others. Thus, we are challenged today to examine how we use our gifts, reminding us that love is a commitment to fruitful action in God’s kingdom.
Response: The Lord comes to judge the peoples with fairness.
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