By Ruwnglal Friny Peter csc
Readings: Eph 2: 1-10; Lk 12: 13-21
In this world of consumerism with advancements in science and technology, only a few people spend their time with God. Sadly, most individuals and groups are concerned about making money, their profession and leading a lavish lifestyle. We do experience and hear it every day. This steadily corrupts the wellbeing of everyone when people begin to envy, insult, hate, harm, and even kill each other to accumulate wealth. All this leads to a life of immorality.
As St. Paul puts down in his letter to the Ephesians, “For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life.” This passage is an affirmation that we are created in the image and likeness of God, destined to live a life of holiness and accept the ways of the Lord, for it is willed for us this way beforehand.
The Gospel reading of the day reminds us of the need to use our human intellect and reasoning to work for spiritual welfare. Most of all, as priests, religious and leaders in the church and society, we are challenged to share our energy, time, material goods, and even finance with the people affected by the pandemic. We did witness a change in the mentality of many people who have come forward to help, support, and offer selfless service during this time. I do believe that many have come to experience hope and consolation from the Lord.
Today, this is the transition we are called to make: from the worldly activities towards spiritual ones, from death to life in the words of St Paul. No matter our past, focusing on what we can do and achieving the riches of God is more meaningful than fame, power and worldly possessions. We pray and seek the grace of God in building the heavenly treasures by taking people to God, giving the Word of God to people, and to revive the power of the Holy Spirit in their lives.