Prayers for those in charge...
Reflections on the readings for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (September 22, 2019): AM 8:4-7; PS 113:1-2,4-6,7-8; 1 TM 2:1-8; LK 16:1-13
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
Christ came to save every person from the evil of sin and the finality of death.
In this Sunday’s reading from Paul’s second letter to Timothy we learn that in early Christian communities, as today, we may need a reminder that we have a responsibility to others. “I ask that supplications, prayers, petitions, and thanksgivings be offered for everyone, for kings and for all in authority, that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life in all devotion and dignity. This is good and pleasing to God our savior, who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4). We are called to pray not only for those near and dear to us and ourselves, but also for people of other beliefs and backgrounds. In particular, we should remember those who are in authority in our prayer. They have an obligation to seek the welfare of others and we need to ask God to bless and guide them. In addition, we are encouraged to show our own good example to those around us.
Just as Jesus sent out His Apostles to preach the Good News, He expects that all who follow Him will reveal our faith through daily words and deeds. Moreover, we show respect for our neighbors who do not know or believe in our Lord by acknowledging their spiritual and material concerns. We are all meant to be people of truth, compassion and peace – for our own sake, as well as the whole world.
Suggested missionary action: We need to commit ourselves each day to living a life of faith and offering good example to those around us. We can also make an effort to pray for all government officials and public servants in fulfilling their responsibilities for the good of all.
