Akhsi Wary csc –
Readings: 1Cor 2: 10-16; Lk 4: 31- 37
The first reading of the day reminds us that we can know God and see things as God sees them through the power of the Holy Spirit within us and our life in Christ, provided we are open to his gratuitous grace.
In the gospel, Jesus is presented as a great leader, teacher, exorcist, and healer. Jesus spoke and acted with authority, demonstrating his ability to command unclean spirits and heal the afflicted. Where did Jesus get this authority and these qualities?
Clearly, from his most dear Father! Jesus loved his father and lived in continual communion with him. All of his words and actions flowed from this communion. Jesus was not afraid or disturbed by the presence of evil in the world. In fact, he was continually confronted and challenged by evil forces, which eventually led to his passion, crucifixion, and death.
Despite these challenges and difficulties, he never yielded to despair but remained steadfast and confident in his father’s love and care. Today, we are invited to imitate Jesus’ example of trust and confidence in his father. Yes, at times, it may feel like our lives and the world are more dominated by forces that are destructive to human life and dignity. We might even question whether the power of evil is stronger than the power of God.
But today, our challenge is the same as Jesus’—to live in communion with God the Father, trusting that our lives and the world are in his hands. Let us strive to align ourselves more closely with the Father, knowing that Jesus will provide us with the strength we need in this effort.