REFLECTIONS ON THE WORD – 12/17/21 (Friday)

For the readings, click here: https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/daily-readings

Blessed Friday of the Third Week of Advent! In our gospel reading, we see that there are three divisions in the generations prior to the first coming of our Savior. The first division is Abraham to David, the second division is from David to Babylonian Exile, and the third division is from the Babylonian Exile to Jesus. What does this signify? These three divisions signify the change in the government of their times. In the first division, Israel was under the judges. In the second division, they were under the kings. In the third division, they were under the Jewish priests. In our times, even though there are external changes, only Jesus grants the internal change of our hearts and souls because He is our Judge, King and High Priest. 

Do we serve Jesus Christ or do we prefer to obey our earthly rulers? However, some of us may be influenced by worldly leaders to the point of disobeying God's commandments. In different parts of the world, the right to life of the people, such as the unborn and the elderly, are no longer respected. In other societies, the institution of marriage established by God is always redefined, and His commandments are publicly violated. Maybe, some of us support such candidates and officials because of our attachments to them. Because we like them, we may think everything that they promote is good. We may also think that our religion is just a matter of choice and preference. Perhaps, Jesus is inviting us to make a choice, to choose Him or not. And, if we become faithful to Him, He will grant us the gift of salvation. 

Let us reflect on our beliefs whether we deny some of the teachings of Christ, especially because of supporting public officials or laws. If we do, let us seek the forgiveness that our High Priest offers to us through confession. May we always examine the social and moral issues in light of the teachings of Christ, so He will reign in our hearts as King. And, may we always pray for the conversions of all sinners, especially government officials, so we'll have the hope of being judged to enter His Kingdom. 

Amen +

 

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May God bless us and may He grant us the gift of faithfulness. May He teach us to listen to His Word and strengthen us until the day of His coming. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic