Living as Belonging to the Lord
Reflections on the readings for the Second Sunday of Ordinary Time (January 14, 2018): 1 SM 3:3B-10, 19; PS 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10; 1 COR 6:13C-15A, 17-20; JN 1:35-42
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days.
In his first letter to the early Christians of Corinth, St. Paul finds reminds them that they need to have a better appreciation of their own bodies. He urges them – and us – to realize that through baptism we give ourselves completely to our Lord. Therefore, our bodies, like our minds and souls, truly belong to Him. “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God, and that you are not your own? For you have been purchased as a price. Therefore glorify God in your body” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Whether two thousand years ago or today, Jesus asks His followers to accept His way of goodness, compassion and service. Our relationship with Him must come first in all things. We have to see ourselves and other people with the eyes of Christ. That means treating ourselves and every one else with respect, honesty and mercy – both physically and spiritually.
Suggested missionary action: Let us ask the Holy Spirit to help us appreciate His concern for our bodies, minds, hearts and souls. And let us ask for guidance in serving our Lord and being the persons He wants us to be.
