Readings: Genesis 3:9-24, Ps. 90:2-6,12-13, Mark 8:1-10
“Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?” (Genesis 3:11)
- A sin is a deliberate act of the will, whether by omission or commission, in thoughts, words, or deeds that contravenes God's laws. Sin is a refusal on the part of man to acknowledge the supremacy of God.
- Every sin carries a mark of rebellion and mistrust in God as the one on whom our life depends. That is why there is a direct and immediate punishment for every sin for direct offenders and those who aid and abet the sin. This is the message behind our First Reading
- When God said that by eating the tree, Adam and Eve would die, he was not telling a lie. After they sinned, they died; it was death to innocence and death to the bliss of Eden. Each time we sin, something dies inside of us, and the more we sin, the further we pull ourselves away from God.
- Hunger and suffering today are direct consequences of sin at the beginning. Nonetheless, in Jesus Christ, we realise that all hope is not yet lost. When people came to spend time with Jesus, he could see they were physically hungry. He fed them miraculously with just seven loaves and a few fishes. Through sharing, over four thousand able-bodied men, not counting women and children, were fed.
- There is more joy in serving God with a clean heart than compromising his decrees and commandments. Charity is a magical act; it not only multiplies the little you have but also covers a multitude of sins.
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, give us the grace to trust you that we may not disobey your commandments. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saturday of week 5 in Ordinary Time, Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Genesis 3:9-24, Ps. 90:2-6,12-13, Mark 8:1-10).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu