Home > 2008 > October

Reflection for Sunday 10/26/08

READINGS
First Reading: Exodus 22:20-26
Second Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:5c-10
Gospel: Matthew 22:34-40

REFLECTION:
Jesus’ response to the Pharisees’ “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?“ is an invitation to us. Jesus tells us that we are to love God with all our heart, all our soul, and all our mind and to love one another as we love ourselves. Jesus is asking us to live in such a way that our words and actions reflect these commandments. Aware that God loves us first and always we are to dedicate all that we are and all that we do to God. We are to surrender to this glorious God and submit to God’s truth. We are to live with open hearts and hands in service to each other. As we consider Jesus’ words we may realize that we need to renew our commitment to God and to serving God’s people. As we reflect on what drives us, on what is our main motivation, we may discover it is time to re-align our values. The choices we make, how we spend our time and our resources, how we treat each other should reflect our fidelity to these two simple but proud commandments.

1. In a practical sense, what is one thing that would change in your life if you loved your neighbor as yourself?
2. Why is it hard sometimes to love your neighbor? How can you do a better job of following Jesus’ commandment?

PRAYER:
Lord, help me to respond to your call to love you with my entire being and to love and serve your people. Amen

Mass Readings Online