Saturday, 25 November 2023. Read 1 Maccabees 6:1-13, Ps. 9:2-4,6,16,19, Luke 20:27-40
“But now I remember the evils I did in Jerusalem. I seized all her silver and gold vessels and sent them to destroy the inhabitants of Judah without good reason. I know that these evils have come upon me because of this, and behold, I am perishing of deep grief in a strange land.” (1 Maccabees 6:12-13)
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus explains the meaning of resurrection to the Sadducees, who did not believe that the dead could rise again. If these Sadducees were modern-day Christians, I guess they would have asked Jesus to show them where it is written in the Scriptures that the dead are to rise again.
The Sadducees asked Jesus about a woman who married seven brothers, desiring to know whose wife she would be in the resurrection. This question revealed their limited understanding of life after death. Jesus explains that we will be like the Angels in the resurrection – pure spirits who would not need to marry or give birth.
Jesus quoted from the Scriptures to support his point. He referred them to the passage of Moses in the burning bush. The Sadducees were conversant with that passage, but the full implication of this passage never occurred to them. He is God, not of the dead but of the Living.
After all his evil deeds, King Antiochus Epiphanes died in shame, with tears and sorrow. In his own words: “I remember the evils I did in Jerusalem … I sent to destroy the inhabitants of Judah without good reason. I know that these evils have come upon me because of this, and behold, I am perishing of deep grief in a strange land.”
Today, our Psalmist sings: “For the needy shall not always be forgotten, nor the hopes of the poor ever perish.” When it seems like evil people are succeeding, don’t worry, keep trusting in God, don’t give up hope, and stop being good.
Saint of the Day: Saint Catherine of Alexandria. She was born around 305 in Alexandria, Egypt. She converted to Christianity after a vision. At 18, she debated with Christian philosophers, and her arguments converted many. During the persecution of Emperor Maximinus, she was arrested, scourged and imprisoned. Although she was beheaded, her body was reportedly whisked away by Angels. She became very popular during the Middle Ages. Many Churches and chapels in Europe are dedicated to her. Due to her reputation for learning and wisdom, she is the patron saint of libraries, librarians, teachers, archivists and anyone associated with wisdom or teaching. She is also the patron saint of lawyers for her debating skills and persuasive language. Saint Catherine, an African Saint, is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, strengthen me to move on when I feel like giving up because of the many evils around me. May I remain faithful to you till death. Through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you. (Saturday of week 33 in Ordinary Time, Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: 1 Maccabees 6:1-13, Ps. 9:2-4,6,16,19, Luke 20:27-40).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu
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