24th Week in Ordinary Time – John Chrysostom
1st Reading: 1Cor 12:12-14, 27-31a
Brothers and sisters: As a body is one though it has many parts, and all the parts of the body, though many, are one body, so also Christ. For in one Spirit we were all baptized into one Body, whether Jews or Greeks, slaves or free persons, and we were all given to drink of one Spirit. Now the body is not a single part, but many. Now you are Christ’s Body, and individually parts of it. Some people God has designated in the Church to be, first, Apostles; second, prophets; third, teachers; then, mighty deeds; then gifts of healing, assistance, administration, and varieties of tongues. Are all Apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work mighty deeds? Do all have gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? Strive eagerly for the greatest spiritual gifts.
Gospel: Lk 7:11-17
Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.
“DO NOT WEEP” Who could imagine the sorrows of the widow, losing an only son? In most cultures, such tragic events attract lots of sympathies.. Stepping into the scene, Jesus was moved by pity for her and consoled her. Reaching out to those who mourn, those facing difficulties in their lives is born out of an interior state that connects us with them. Such a kind gesture assumes a deeper meaning when it is prompted by our faith in Christ who is the life and the resurrection. Notwithstanding that touching the casket would merit him ritual impurity, yet moved by his compassion and readiness to intervene, he touched it and restored life to the dead and joy to the mourners. Having the heart and mind of Christ is our Christian project; a heart that feels the pains and anguish of others and is willing to help. Prayer: Lord, we are surrounded by lots of people who face life’s difficulties. May we be your instrument of consolation, reaching out to them with words and gestures of hope.
DAILY GOSPEL 