Wednesday 25th September
2019. Read Ezra 9:5-9, Psalm (Tobit 13) and Luke 9:1-6.
Going through our readings today, there is one word that seems to
connect both: ministry. While our first reading presents us with the exercise
of the ministry by Ezra the priest, our Gospel passage presents us the
commissioning of the twelve to the ministry by Jesus Christ. To some extent, we
see in these readings two major dimensions of ministry; the contemplative (or
religious, as represented by Ezra praying for the people with his garments torn)
and the secular (or active; as represented by the twelve going out to win souls
for God).
There are two ways to serve in the vineyard of God; one by the commitment
to a life of prayer (as we see practised by the secluded religious, some of whom
never leave the monastery or convent) and two; by actively going out to engage
the people (as we see in priests and religious involved in various aspects of
parish duties, technology and media, school/medical apostolate, care-giving, religious
entertainment and so on). The truth is that neither is superior to the other as
both are needed for the continual spread of the Gospel to all nations.
In our Gospel passage, Jesus clearly spelt out the implications of the
ministry to the twelve and this includes: a recognition of power and authority
over all demons, the ability to cure diseases (the gift of healing), continuous
preaching of the word of God, the spirit of poverty (taking nothing for the journey,
not even a spare tunic), and above all staying with the people.
Without these core values, the work of ministry fails to serve its true
purpose. For instance, without a sense of poverty (taking nothing for the
journey), ministry becomes merely an occupation rather than a vocation. A few
days ago, we read from St. Paul’s letter to Timothy where he warned the young
Bishop against making money a god. St. Peter would clarify further saying: “Tend
the flock of God that is in your charge … not under compulsion but willingly,
as God would have you do it-- not for sordid gain but eagerly.” (1 Peter 5:2).
One lesson we learn from our readings today is the need for constant
prayer, especially for our nation. Just as Ezra tore his clothes (a sign of mourning/repentance)
and prayed fervently to God on behalf of the nation, we are called to do the
same. Nevertheless, as the prophet Joel would clarify, it is more important
that we rend our hearts (repent) than our garments. “Rend your hearts and not
your garments. Return to the LORD, your God, for he is gracious and merciful.” (Joel
2:13). As we pray for our nation, let us increase our prayer for our leaders as
well as our religious ministers. Prayer is the key.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, transform my prayer life for good. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith.
It is well with you. God bless you. (Wednesday of the 25th Week in Ordinary
Time. Bible Study: Ezra 9:5-9, Psalm (Tobit 13) and Luke 9:1-6)
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