Ezekiel 18:25-28
Ezekiel highlights an important perspective: while we might sometimes feel like questioning God’s
justice, it’s crucial to turn that lens back onto ourselves. Isn’t it often our
own actions that fall short? Instead of dwelling on past achievements or mistakes,
let’s focus on our present journey towards God. Every moment offers a fresh
start, and God’s arms remain open wide to welcome us back, to help us stand up
each time we fall. Christians sometimes face the temptation is being complaisant
with failures instead of striving to rise again.
Matthew 21:28-32
Then, we have the story of the two sons from the
Gospel of Matthew. It’s a poignant reminder that words alone don’t define our
commitment to God, but actions do. How often have we promised faithfulness to
God, to our Christian commitments and then not followed through? The essence of
our Christian journey is not in grand declarations but in the quiet, consistent
choices we make every day, no matter how small they may be.
In our world where appearances often matter more than
reality, Jesus’ words about the tax collectors and prostitutes resonate even
louder. They, who were once on the fringes, embraced genuine transformation
upon hearing the message of John the Baptist and Jesus. Their story isn’t just
an ancient tale, but a modern call: to seek depth in our faith, not just its
surface. It is truly in this permanent search for authenticity that we find solace
and happiness.
Recall the words of Pope Francis at the beginning of
his pontificate: “God is never tired of forgiving us, but we sometimes are tired of asking God’s
forgiveness. He is a loving Father who always forgives.” (Message from the 1st
Angelus of Pope Francis on 17 march). These aren’t just words of comfort but a challenge. Are we courageous
enough to continually seek God’s mercy and, in turn, extend that mercy to
others?
So, as we navigate our spiritual paths into this new
month, let’s prioritize authenticity, humility and ardent desire to do God’s
will. The Kingdom of God, as St. Paul reminds us, is about a life of goodness,
peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. The world needs witnesses who not only speak
of such a kingdom but live it out with joy and conviction.
In every ‘yes’ we offer to God, let it be a genuine
commitment, reflecting in our daily choices. As we look to Mary, our Blessed
Mother, as the perfect model of saying ‘yes’ to divine will, may our lives be a
vibrant testament to the love and transformative power of Jesus Christ.
Let us pray:
Heavenly
Father,
Guide our
hearts towards true authenticity in our walk with You.
Help us
remember that while words matter, it is our actions that truly reflect our
commitment to Your will.
Strengthen us
to embrace each day as an opportunity for genuine repentance and
transformation, looking beyond the superficial and seeking depth in our faith.
May we be
inspired by the tax collectors, prostitutes, and all who have found their way
back to You, reminding us that Your mercy knows no bounds.
Let our ‘yes’ to
You be genuine, our lives a testament to Your unfailing love and grace.
As Mary, our
Blessed Mother, showed unwavering faith,
May we too,
live our faith with authenticity, conviction, and joy.
We make our
payers through Chris our Lord, Amen.
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