Philip Raj –
Readings: Philem 7 – 20; Lk 17:20-25
In the first reading, St. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus because he sees great potential in him to preach the word of God. God has a plan for everyone, provided we are willing to do his will in our lives. In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks about the coming of the kingdom of God, emphasizing that it is not something we can predict. When the Pharisees asked Jesus about his expectations, he did not answer them directly and instead indicated that they were asking the wrong question.
This suggests that we should not be concerned about the timing of the kingdom but rather its nature, which resides within us. The kingdom is essentially God’s reign within the individual soul. It is not only a future reality but also something present now, to be fully revealed in the future. We must firmly believe that our Lord Jesus Christ, having ascended into heaven 40 days after his resurrection, will return in glory and majesty. When that day comes, He will not appear to just a few or in secret; He will be visible to all believers and non-believers alike.
Therefore, we must always be prepared, recognizing that peace, joy, and love within us are signs of the kingdom of God. As Jonathan Edwards said, “The seeking of the kingdom of God is the chief business of the Christian life.”