Read Baruch 1:15-22, Ps. 79:1-5,8-9, Luke 10:13-16
“Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty works done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes.” (Luke 10:13)
Driving through the streets of our country, one cannot but notice the many funny names of churches scattered all over the place. Even from the titles of these churches, there appears to be an emphasis on “miracles.” Some even have the slogan: “Come and receive your miracle” or “Your miracle awaits.”
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus is unhappy with Bethsaida and Chorazin because, despite the miracles in those towns, the people remained stiff-necked and refused to repent. Jesus was expecting a change of heart and a change of life to follow from the miracles, but the reverse was the case.
In our first reading today, Baruch acknowledges the sinfulness of Israel as a nation, reminding the people that their present calamities are a direct result of their disobedience to God’s commands.
Dear friends, repentance from sin is the ultimate miracle. If we must take from God, it is only right that we give back to God. What does God want from us? The holiness of life, purity of heart, truthfulness, righteousness, virtue, obedience, repentance from our bad habits and vices.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, grant me the grace of true repentance. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Friday of week 26 in Ordinary Time, Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Baruch 1:15-22, Ps. 79:1-5,8-9, Luke 10:13-16).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu