MONDAY, THIRTY FIRST WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Rom 11: 29-36 Ps 69: 30-34, 36 Lk 14: 12-14
AT THE TABLE OF PERFECT LOVE
Dining is a familiar scene at most of our celebrations. Even in the Bible we often hear about “dining.” In the New Testament, it is a symbolism of abundance and union with God. The greatest gift God offers to us is His own life so that we can have fellowship with him in His Eternal Kingdom.
Both the readings point out to this great mystery of God’s justice, mercy and love. Jesus reveals God’s fullness of grace and mercy. Jesus undo-es the mistake humanity did, but also becomes an example teaching us to live for others. Jesus is the only mediator, the Way, for us to receive God’s unconditional love and mercy through his Sacrifice. He became God’s Lamb for our redemption and the source of everlasting life. So, when he invites us to forgive seventy times seven, when he asks us to be perfect as the Heavenly Father, he speaks about love that is complete and perfect. So, the invitation to enter into this divine fellowship is not due to our merit, but rather is an outpouring of God’s life.
St Paul says “God’s gifts and his call are irrevocable” (Rom 11:29). The Last Supper affirms that Jesus offers himself to those whom he had chosen, and he would never cancel his invitation due to our uncleanness. It is because God cannot go against his own nature. St Paul beautifully verbalizes it that God’s inability to be unfaithful to His own character, shows that God is perfect love (ref. 2 Tim 2:13). He desires and helps us participate in his holiness often through a process. It is up to those invited to prepare oneself with the appropriate garment.
St John the Baptist introduces Jesus to the public proclaiming the identity of the Redeemer: The Lamb of God. So, Jesus’ frequent meals with people, with sinners and outcasts, is not just to break social norms, but rather to transform us by being our brother and our nourishment. In Jesus we see what holiness and perfection looks like for us to imitate.
Response: In your great mercy, answer me, O Lord.
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