10 Sep
Thu
23rd Week in Ordinary Time
Col. 3:12-17
Ps. 150(151):1-2,3-4,5-6
Lk. 6:27-38
(Ps Wk III)
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Jesus speaks of 'agape', a love of active concern that expresses itself in deeds of love. In fact, He demands a deep form of active love for one's enemies. A disciple is expected not to retaliate insults from enemies but show forgiving love (v. 30). In terms of giving, he or she should give without reserve. Verse 31 is known as the 'golden rule' based on reciprocal relationship and even beyond this. This means that Jesus' command to love one's enemies i.e. by doing good to them without calculating the return of love even when there is no hope of any good act in return. So, true disciples of Jesus are selfless, disinterested and have pure love especially for the good of others. This is because Jesus himself by his death on the cross reveals this kind of love.

Faced with this challenge, we know it is a struggle to overcome evil with good, hate with love. What Jesus is asking us is, not so much to like the enemy nor a question of sentiment of affection but real active agape.

The call to forgive and to give with generosity will receive more from God. We recall this is what Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount or the Beatitudes. How do we respond to this challenge? Let us continue to review our daily living so as to grow because this is necessary or self-improvement.

The phrase 'give till it hurts' implies real 'giving'. Let us like St Francis of Assisi, in his prayer of peace, take up this challenge to love unconditionally.




"Lord, help me learn to love my enemies and allow others to grow in Your name."




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 opportunities for education and employment may increase for all young people.
Elaboration

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