THURSDAY, THIRTIETH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME
Eph 6: 10-20; Ps 144: 1-2, 9-10; Lk 13: 31-35
STEPS OF SPIRITUAL WARFARE
Today’s Gospel presents a challenging message about the dangers to our spiritual life. When some Pharisees warn Jesus that Herod wants to kill Him, Jesus is not overcome by fear. He calls Herod a “fox” and continues faithfully on His mission, showing that He is guided not by fear but by the will of His Father. The Gospel invites us to examine our own lives. We often worry about our health, money, reputation and what others think of us, while forgetting the greatest danger: losing our relationship with God. Spiritual decline rarely happens suddenly; it begins quietly through laziness, pride, fear, anger, jealousy, unforgiveness, or the desire to please others.
Therefore, the first step is to recognize our enemies: the attitudes, habits and temptations that slowly draw us away from God. Satan seeks to weaken our faith and separate us from Christ, so Jesus tells us to watch and pray. Second, remain in God’s love. Knowing that we are loved by God frees us from fear. Difficulties and temptations may come, but Christ gives us the strength to persevere. Third, be filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit gives us wisdom to recognize our faults, humility to accept correction, courage to change, and strength to choose what is right. Fourth, live an active Christian life. Faith must become action. We are called to serve, forgive, encourage and help others—remaining committed without becoming anxious. Fifth, repair broken relationships quickly. Hurt and misunderstanding are inevitable, but resentment destroys our peace. Forgiveness does not excuse the wrong; it frees our hearts from hatred. Finally, remain constant in prayer. Jesus Himself remained united with the Father through prayer. Prayer gives us the strength to face temptation, suffering and opposition with faith and peace.
Let us ask ourselves: Do I pray for those who hurt me? Do I forgive those who oppose me? Do I remain faithful when I am afraid? May we remain close to Jesus, constant in prayer, quick to forgive, and courageous in doing good. When Christ is at the centre of our lives, we remain secure in God’s love.
Response: Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
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