Reflection for 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time: October 1, 2023
Ezekiel 18: 25-28: This passage is a clear message for us to ponder our decisions and whether we’re obeying God’s Commands or going our own way, in sin. The prophet is straightforward. If we’ve been sinners and turn from our sinful ways, to lives of holiness; then God will forgive us and we will share in eternal life, through God’s mercy. However, if we “backslide” from lives of holiness and begin making decisions to engage in sin and evil; then we’ll be liable to punishment and judgment. The message in Scripture is consistent. God is merciful, but also just. Let’s reflect on our current lifestyles and decisions. Are we conforming to God’s Will or rebelling against Him? Decisions have consequences. Are we on the path to Heaven, or to Hell?
Psalm 25: “Remember Your mercies, O Lord.”: This lovely and hopeful psalm is reflecting the psalmist’s turning away from past sins. The author is now humbly approaching God and requesting mercy and forgiveness for past sins. The writer has turned from sinful ways and is reconciling with God, in repentance. Notice that the author approaches God with faith in God’s compassion and loving mercy. This week seems a good time to reflect on the avenue the Church provides for accessing the Source of mercy and forgiveness… Jesus Christ! Of course, the “avenue for forgiveness” is the Sacrament of Reconciliation or Confession. Let’s consider when the last time was that we availed ourselves of this holy Sacrament. This under-used Sacrament provides so much healing and comfort and yet, out of fear and discomfort, many of us avoid availing ourselves of God’s great mercy that’s here, for us. Let’s consider going to Confession more often. Freedom and Salvation can be ours through this most wonderful “avenue of God’s mercy!”
Philippians 2:1-11: Notice that in this second reading, we reflect on Paul’s plea for us to strive for a collective and holy unity in the community. This unity transcends petty arguments. Striving for unity, as Paul suggests, helps us to transcend getting stuck in our own selfish interests. Working for unity calls us to a more noble mission, to work for the common good and for what’s best for all; not just ourselves. Reflecting on our first reading, today, it’s obvious that the motives for sins we commit are often prideful, selfish and greedy. St. Paul is reminding us that our calling is to a self-denying holiness. As Christians, we’re inspired to focus, instead on serving others and loving them, as we love ourselves. Jesus exemplified total self-sacrifice and self-giving, in service to others and the Church. We’re being called to emulate that!
Matt 21:28-32: Now, we’re with Jesus; our Lord, Himself. Jesus reiterates and reinforces the message we’ve already received from our other readings, today. Jesus re-stresses that we’re being held responsible for our decisions. Will we pay tribute to the faith with our lips and then “go our own (sinful) way,” or will we grumble, but then, after reflection, obey?
Each choice we make; whether to reject God’s Will or conform ourselves to God’s Will, has consequences. This week, we’d be wise to reflect on life choices we’re making. Are we choosing sin or sanctity? Our current Godless society thinks it can “re-define” or “re-determine” what’s sinful and what’s virtuous; and that’s very dangerous for the fate of many souls. The Ten Commandments provide guidance. We’re being held responsible for making the right choices. Let’s pray for wisdom and grace to choose the right path; the path of holiness! Deacon Matt