Monday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Isaiah 1:10-17, Psalm 50:8-23, Matthew 10:34-11:1
“Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth; I have not come to bring peace, but a sword.” (Matthew 10:34)
The story is told of a young man who saw an advert “Zoo Opening: Lions Wanted.” He thought about it for some time and decided to take the job. One day, as he was jumping up and down in his cage, he noticed another lion in a new cage close to him. He was so terribly afraid and started regretting his decision. He knew his end had come when this new lion started walking close to him.
Just when he was about to say his last prayer he got the shocker of his life as the other lion spoke: “Bros, adjust your attire, people can see your nose, abi you wan fall our hand?”
Like these guys who became lions for convenience (to get paid), many Christians today wear their Christian identity like a costume. We offer prayers and attend crusades hoping to receive all the best things in life from God yet we continue to reject God by our sinful choices.
The prophet Isaiah speaking in the place of God says: “I cannot endure iniquity in your solemn assembly… when you spread forth your hands, even though you make many prayers, I will not listen; your hands are full of blood.” (Isaiah 1:13-15).
Dear friends, Jesus calls us today to radical Christianity. Anyone who loves (values, cherishes, respects) father or mother, son or daughter, (husband or suitor, contract or job) more than me is not worthy of me (Matthew 10:37).
To follow Jesus at all is to carry a cross. It is seeing Jesus in everyone we meet. “Whoever gives to one of these little ones because he is a disciple, (because you know God is in him/her), he shall not lose his reward.” (Matthew 10:42).
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, make me a true Christian. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. God bless you.