True Discipleship Involves Living Out Virtues

Reflections

Pritam Dangwar csc –

Readings: Eph 1:1-10; Lk 11: 47-54

In The Imitation of Christ, Thomas à Kempis emphasizes the importance of Christians imitating Christ’s character, virtues, and way of life. In today’s first reading, St. Paul urges the Ephesians not to lose their identity as children of God. Through Christ, we have been blessed with every spiritual gift and called to live holy and pure lives.

This reading challenges us to remember our identity as chosen children of God and recognize our purpose in His plan. We may lack the wisdom to fully understand and embrace God’s love, but we are called to grow in His Spirit. In the gospel, Jesus confronts the religious leaders who prioritized outward appearances over genuine faith and compassion. They honoured the prophet but neglected the message, burdening people with rules and forgetting the importance of compassion.

This gospel invites us to examine our actions, speech, and behaviour, urging us to show compassion to the poor and marginalized. Both readings encourage us to cultivate virtues such as humility, compassion, and a desire for justice. St. Ignatius of Antioch, whom we honour today reminds us that “Where there is Christ, there is the Church.”

This teaching emphasizes that true discipleship involves living out virtues, embodying Christ’s love in our interactions. May God’s grace empower us to use our intellect and knowledge to uplift others, rather than becoming obstacles in their paths.