Today's first reading from Romans 12 is really a blueprint for living the Christian life. More in a moment. In the Gospel reading from Luke 14, Jesus tells a parable about people who were invited to a great banquet. One by one, they gave excuses as to why they could not attend. Sound familiar?
"Let love be sincere; hate what is evil, hold on to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; anticipate one another in showing honor. Do not grow slack in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, endure in affliction, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the holy ones, exercise hospitality. Bless those who persecute you, bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Have the same regard for one another; do not be haughty but associate with the lowly."
I believe this one paragraph sums up nicely how we are to conduct ourselves as Christians. Read through this slowly today and make an assessment on how you are doing with each point. Rejoice in the ones you're good at, and ask God to help you do better with the others.
Father, help us to live out this passage from Romans 12. May we make it the blueprint for living, today and always, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Parishes across North America are investing in catechising the faithful at Christmas Masses by giving away copies of A Minute in the Church: Back to the Basics. Order copies today at www.GusLloyd.com.
Thank you for your ministry. Could you please add the verses you reference when quoting the Bible? Such as Romans 12: …..verse….
Thank you