13 Oct
Thu
28th Week in Ordinary Time
Rom. 3:21-30
Ps. 129(130):1-2,3-6
Lk. 11:47-54
(Ps Wk IV)
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The opening words of today's passage are a good example of Paul's intensity and skill in argumentation. These traits have frequently made his language somewhat unclear. Did Paul mean that the "Law and the Prophets" - the Old Testament, the Old Covenant - only communicated an abstract and intellectual knowledge about God's justice, but did nothing to bestow that justice on those who responded to God by good Godfearing lives? Given the rest of his theological thought, he would almost certainly reject such a narrow interpretation of what he meant. He is, rather, thinking of two ways to God - a Jewish way, guided by the Old Testament, and a Gentile way, without the Old Testament. Both ways are united in Jesus Christ, who is the ultimate meaning of any way that leads to God. The way of the Jews was the Old Testament - that is what ultimately will guide them to God, and to Jesus. The Gentiles were called upon to accept Jesus without the benefit of the Old Testament.

Ultimately Paul is calling for tolerance, a tolerance still not always manifested even in those who claim to be Christians.



Father in Heaven, we accept You as our heavenly Father. Help us to be tolerant and accepting of the many different ways by which You lead people to grace and eternal life.

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 the terminally ill may be supported by their faith in God and the love of their brothers and sisters.
Elaboration

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