THE WORD BECAME FLESH

Monday of 24^th week in Ordinary Time, 2021

1Tim 2:1-8

Ps 28

Luke 7:1-10

I am not worthy

Dear friends in Christ, today we celebrate the memorial of St John Chrysostom. The surname means ‘golden mouth,’ a name which he earned, by his eloquence in preaching the gospel. He was a fruitful and energetic preacher and Patriarch of Constantinople, and twice he was sent into exile, because he incurred the displeasure of the emperor. He died worn out by his hardships in exile. 

In our first reading today Paul encouraged his listeners to offer prayers for those who run the government at all levels. “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, godly and respectful in every way.” Those who run public office may not be perfect, they sometimes do not live up to our expectations in office, however, their actions and inactions affect us all. Most times our peace and well being depend on what they do. So it is fitting that we pray for them always to run the affairs of government in a godly manner, desire to serve in humility and endeavour to restore sanctity of life.

In our gospel an example of a great faith in Jesus, by one who is from outside of Israel. He was a high ranking official in his profession but he recognises his weakness and helplessness in the face of the sickness of his servant. In the first place, out of respect and honour, he did not approach Jesus himself, he sent some elders who told Jesus, “He is worthy to have you do this for him…” They based their judgement on the fact that, the man had contributed immensely to the synagogue. When the centurion knew Jesus was coming, he sent his friends to say, “Lord, do not trouble yourself, for I am not worthy to have you come under my roof…But say the word and let my servant be healed…” Jesus saw a great faith in the man and marvelled at this uncommon faith in his ability, “I tell you, not even in Israel have I found such faith,” and so granted his wish. The words of this centurion has become our prayer at Mass before receiving communion. We are not worthy to have Jesus come into us or under our roof, but as God, he comes out of love. “Our roof” could be our hearts and minds, our mouths, our souls, lives. He knows we lack the grace to receive Him. His love covers our iniquities in all these areas. What a privilege to receive him in Holy Communion and to have God come to dwell in us. Only faith can explain what this is all about. We need to show strong faith in him who gives himself to us with so great a love in the Eucharist. We must also learn to welcome others in the name of God and treat them with love and care.

Let us pray: Lord, I thank you for your love which excels every other thing. Help us too, to become bread broken for others and shared until all are fed. Amen.

+Remain blessed