THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Thursday after Epiphany, 2022

1John 4:19-5:4

Ps

Luke 4:14-22

Fulfilled in your hearing

Dear friends in Christ, to hear God talk to us is an experience many will cherish. The story of Abraham our father in faith is replete with interruptions in his life, of God speaking to him. The story of Moses is even more interesting, he conversed with God just as we do with a friend. Where has all of that disappeared to? Why is God now so silent? Why is it that we pray and do not hear his response? God’s greatest word and commandment is LOVE.

First Reading (1John 4:19-5:4) In this passage John reminds us that the only reason we can claim to love God is because he has loved us first. God is the one that initiates every form of contact with his creatures. He makes himself accessible to us that we might seek him. One however, cannot truly seek God, if he hates his brothers and sisters. Anyone who hates the children can only delude himself by claiming to love the Father. Anyone who does not love those he can see, cannot love God whom he cannot see. When you defraud your Neighbour or nation or hurt others, how can you claim to love God? When you outrightly profess hatred for your wife, husband, child or neighbour, how does it translate to love of God? Be fair to others that you may have peace. The real essence of our relationship with God is the love of your neighbour. You may spend so much time in prayer, do you spend time with your family as well?

Gospel (Luke 4:14-22) In this passage, Jesus returned home to the town where he had been brought up. They must have heard about their illustrious son who is doing wonders in the towns and cities all about. Everyone must be wondering if he could replicate what they've heard of him, on home soil and he obviously did not disappoint. The sabbath presents a great opportunity for religious instruction and Jesus was given the chance to minister to the people. The passage of the day was from Isaiah and captures the mission of the Messiah who is, “…anointed to preach the good news to the poor… release to captives… sight to the blind…liberty to the oppressed…proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord.” He concluded by saying, “Today, this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” The Messiah is called to live and love and propagate the mercy of the Father.

Put yourself in the crowd of the day and listen to Jesus say those words, do you see yourself believing him right away or joining those who hesitated. Even today, God continues to fulfil his words in our time, how attentive are you to God. Those who are begotten of God, learn that love from God, and share it with others.

Let us pray:

Lord, your love is eternal, grant us the grace to truly love those around us beginning from our homes to the society at large. Let that love show forth in our words and our actions at all times. Amen. 

+Remain blessed