30th Sunday - C (October 27, 2019)

“Their Own Righteousness”

Luke 18: 9-14

“Jesus addressed this parable to those who were convinced of their own righteousness.”

Most of us have probably found ourselves the Pharisee in this parable. 

He lists the good things that he has done.  And they are good. 

But we must know that when we rely solely on our own “righteousness,” sooner or later, we will fall.  Righteousness is God’s gracious gift.  It’s free, not earned.  God alone is righteous.  Our righteousness comes from God. 

Therefore, it is a mistake thinking that we can be righteous by our good deeds or achievements.  Our “own righteousness” could make us so proud that we think we have no need for God.  It could also throw us into despair when we realize that our achievements just won’t cut it.  

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29th Sunday - C (October 20, 2019)

Readings

28th Sunday - C (October 13, 2019)

Give Thanks

Luke 17: 11-19

Sometimes we do things out of a sense of obligation, or when asked, requested, or commanded.  That’s the case of the 9 lepers.  And they receive what they ask - healing. 

Other times, we act out of love or a sense of gratitude.  That’s the case of the Samaritan.

Maybe I should ask myself what motivates me in my religious practices, and ultimately my relationship with God.

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27th Sunday - C (October 6, 2019)

Our Vocation, Our Mission, Our Privilege

Luke 17: 5-10

In this Gospel passage, Jesus speaks of commands.  The question is then, “What has Jesus commanded us?”

At the end of the Gospel of Luke, Jesus commands the disciples to be witnesses of his life, crucifixion, and resurrection. 

In the Gospel of John, Jesus commands his followers “to love one another as I have loved you.”

We should treat these commands as privileges.  Jesus does not treat us as servants.  We, sinners, have been given the privilege of being witnesses and bearers of God’s love and salvation.