REFLECTION/HOMILY FOR TUESDAY OF THE ELEVENTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

THE CALL TO LOVE AND SERVE OTHERS WITH GENEROSITY, COMPASSION, AND UNCONDITIONAL LOVE.

First Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Responsorial Psalm: Ps. 145(146):2,5-9
Gospel Reading: Matthew 5:43-48
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In a world often marked by self-interest and division, there is a call that echoes through the ages—a call to love and serve others with generosity, compassion, and unconditional love. It is a call that transcends boundaries, embraces diversity, and recognizes the inherent worth and dignity of every human being. This call beckons us to rise above our own needs and desires, extending a helping hand to those in need, and cultivating a spirit of selflessness and kindness. At the heart of this call is the profound understanding that we are all interconnected, bound together by our shared humanity. When we respond to this call, we open our hearts to the needs and struggles of others, recognizing that their joy and well-being are intimately tied to our own. We break free from the narrow confines of self-centered living and embrace a broader perspective—one that seeks to uplift and support our fellow human beings. Thus, the readings of today invite us to love and serve others with generosity, compassion, and unconditional love.

In the First Reading from 2 Corinthians 8:1-9, we hear Paul’s encouragement to the Corinthians to excel in the act of giving. He praises the generosity of the Macedonian churches and urges the Corinthians to imitate their example. The passage emphasizes the idea of sacrificial giving, as Paul references the poverty of the Macedonian churches and the selflessness they displayed in contributing to the needs of others. Here, we are called to embrace the spirit of generosity and to serve others with love, mirroring the selfless giving of Christ. In a similar way, today’s Psalm 145(146):2,5-9 (a psalm of praise and trust in God’s faithfulness) speaks of God’s unwavering love and care for all creation. The psalmist celebrates God’s compassion, justice, and provision for the oppressed, hungry, and downtrodden. Here, we are encouraged to keep trusting in God’s unfailing love and finding solace in His care, highlighting the importance of relying on God’s steadfastness and extending that same love to others. Likewise in today’s Gospel Reading according to Matthew (5:43-48), we see a part of Jesus’ teaching on loving one’s enemies. In this passage, Jesus challenges His followers to go beyond societal norms and extend love and forgiveness even to those who mistreat or oppose them. He emphasizes the radical call to love unconditionally, just as God does, without distinction between friends and enemies. Therefore, we are to cultivate a heart of compassion and forgiveness towards all, reflecting the perfect love of God.

Dear friends in Christ, in answering the call to love and serve others with generosity, compassion, and unconditional love, we become agents of transformation in a world yearning for unity and understanding. Our actions, no matter how small, have the power to touch lives and inspire change. We have the opportunity to create a ripple effect of kindness that can span generations, leaving a legacy of love and compassion. So let us heed the call. Let us step outside of our comfort zones and embrace the inherent beauty and worth of every human being. Through our generosity, compassion, and unconditional love, we have the power to create a world that is more just, more compassionate, and more connected. Together, let us answer the call and become beacons of light and love in a world that is in desperate need of them.

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Shalom!
© Fr. Chinaka Justin Mbaeri, OSJ
Paroquia Nossa Senhora de Loreto, Vila Medeiros, São Paulo.
nozickcjoe@gmail.com / fadacjay@gmail.com
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PS: Have you prayed your Rosary today?