Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 16:21-27)
Jesus speaks for the first time of his approaching suffering, death and resurrection. The suffering and death of Jesus will cast a shadow over the rest of the gospel. The Christian is not called toa position and prosperity in this world but to self-sacrifice in the service of others. We face this reality knowing Jesus has trodden the path before us, and that this road leads to the fulness of life.
Am I open to the unexpected ways of God?
What are the crosses in my life that I refuse to carry willingly?
Let us pray for the courage and endurance we need in our Christian lives.
Let us pray for all those who seek to alleviate the sufferings of others..
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 18:15-20)
This Chapter contains the ‘community discourse’, which deals with issues relevant to the daily life of the church. The question of correction of those who do wrong cannot be avoided. It is the responsibility of fellow-Christians to challenge and correct.
Finally, Jesus tells us of his presence when even two or three gather in his name.
How can you know if and how to correct someone who has done wrong?
Can love of neighbour become an excuse for collusion?
Let us pray for wisdom and courage to confront difficult situations with both love and truth.
Let us pray for a deeper awareness of the presence of Christ when we gather in his name.
Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Matthew 18:21-35)
What does it mean to forgive? The saying ‘forgive and forget’ is easily spoken but so difficult to implement. This is the hard challenge to follow Jesus in forgiving as he forgave as he hung on the cross. It is the challenge to behave not as human beings do but in imitation of the very mercy of God.
Is it possible to forgive and forget when the hurt is la Fr Adrian Graffy sting and deep?
Is there someone to whom I can offer forgiveness in my heart today?
Let us pray for wisdom to understand that we are called to imitate God’s compassion.
Let us pray for those whose lives are ruined by bitterness.
Fr Adrian Graffy