We simply need to follow His way...
Reflections on the readings for the Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time (October 4, 2020): IS 5:1-7; PS 80:9,12,13-14,15-16,19-20; PHIL 4:6-9; MT 21:33-43
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
The Old Testament verses and the Gospel today remind us how easy it is for people who think they are following along the right path.
On this Sunday, the readings ask us to consider whether or not we are doing – indeed, whether or not we are being – all that our Lord asks of us. The Old Testament verses and the Gospel today remind us how easy it is for people who think they are following along the right path. Yet they can get sidetracked by concentrating on their personal attitudes and desires. We tend to take a great deal for granted. Rather than relying on God, seeking to cooperate with His grace and accepting His guidance, we often try to handle life on our own. We often think we know best and that we are responsible for knowing exactly what God wants. We prefer to just make our own way. Instead, we simply need to follow the way of Christ.
St. Paul knew that those who walk in Jesus’ footsteps could sometimes be overwhelmed about making the right decisions in living our faith. So he tried to reassure those he converted and all Christians to trust our Savior in all things. “Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Our Lord knows that it can be very difficult at times to live as faithful Catholics. However, we need to focus our thoughts, words, and actions on Him. If we open ourselves to Jesus’ compassion and if we strive to emulate His obedience to the Father and His love for other people, we will experience His peace. We will know true joy when we nurture a close relationship with our Savior day by day.
Suggested missionary action: We can humbly ask Christ to help us in doing and being all He asks. We must also learn to be patient with ourselves, knowing that He knows us better than we do. Let us often pray, “Jesus, I trust in You!”
For resources for the celebration of World Mission Sunday / Mission Month, including materials for prayer and reflection, visit this website.