3 Sep
Wed
22nd Week in Ordinary Time
St Gregory the Great, Pope & doctor
1 Cor. 3:1-9
Ps. 32:12-13,14-15,20-21
Lk. 4:38-44
How To Pray With Shalom
Home Page of Shalom
Index of This Month
 

Paul sternly addresses members of the Church in Corinth as "infants in Christ" after hearing of the jealousy, rivalry, and factions present among them. After all, such divisions can seriously harm and even destroy a community. At the same time, Paul encourages the believers to grow out of those ways of spiritual immaturity and rediscover their unity in Christ.

The text also mentions Apollos, who was of significant assistance in the building up the Church (see also Acts 18:27). Paul reminds us, however, that we should not confuse the helpers with the ultimate source of their help. It is God who blesses us through others, it is God in whom we believe, and it is God who is the fountain of all growth.

Today's Gospel adds to this theme of growth, by showing us the effects of freedom. Jesus releases Simon's mother-in-law from the sickness that afflicts and restricts her. Once liberated, she is immediately able to carry out a role of service.

God's intention is that we be mature and free. Like a flower growing in the field, however, this is a process that takes time. We open ourselves up to nourishing rain and warm sunlight when we reflect on life's experiences, seek to imitate Christ and deepen our relationship with God-the source of all growth.



Christ, how are you calling me to grow today?

DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That those who, because of wars or oppressive regimes, are forced to leave their homes and country may be supported by Christians in the defence and protection of their rights.
Elaboration

- END -


© Copyright Shalom 2008. All rights reserved.