CENTERED ON GOD'S WORD - 9/20/22 (Memorial of Saints Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn, Priest, and Paul Chŏng Ha-sang, and Companions, Martyrs)

Luke 8:21

“My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and act on it.”  

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092022.cfm

Blessed Memorial of Saints Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn, Priest, and Paul Chŏng Ha-sang, and Companions! Our Lord Jesus spoke of the family of God when the crowd mentioned to Him the presence of His Mother and "brothers" (or His cousins). In ancient times, the Greek word "adelphoi" for brothers was not only limited to biological siblings, but it also referred to other family members. This is explained more in detail in the article from "Catholic Answers" below this reflection on the perpetual virginity of Mary. As Jesus tells us, we become members of the family of God by listening to the Word of God and act on it. It is necessary for us to pray and reflect on the Scriptures because God is our guide in life. There are many times that we engage in sins and justify them thinking that what we do is right. But, how can we say it when we have limitations, when we are prone to sin, and when God is the Truth? 

This shows us the love of God for us that He reveals to us Himself through the Bible. What are some of the things that we will learn here? We can know the doctrines of our Lord on faith and morals through His revelation. Because we have fallen human nature, we cannot depend on ourselves on what we will believe and on how we view morality. Without God's revelation, we cannot know the truths that are necessary for salvation, and this is why it's important to trust that God guides the Catholic Church for us to have the assurance of what we believe. At the same time, in the Scriptures, we can also know how to persevere in holiness. In His Word, especially in the gospel, we can witness the virtues of Jesus for us to imitate. Jesus Christ is our Teacher, and it's by following His teachings and example that we can truly belong to His family. 

Because of this, it's clear that the Bible is not merely a historical book. It should not be approached like how we approach other materials or books. We should give reverence to it because this is where God personally speaks to us. How can we read the Scriptures? It's important for us to pray and ask for guidance, and even ask help through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, for us to be open to God's graces and inspiration as we read it. As we read it, we should not forget to have a time of silence for us to listen to what God will reveal to us in our thoughts. The Bible is the living Word of God which means that God shows to us what we are in need of in our personal lives. May we humble ourselves by acknowledging before God our sins as we see His light in the Scriptures. Let us also recognize what God tells us particularly regarding our weaknesses, problems, and sins. He will never fail to teach us because He loves us. 

Jesus also tells us that His family is not just those who hear God's word, but also those who act on it. We should allow the Word of God to transform us and make us better. This is seen most specially in the life of Saints Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn, Priest, and Paul Chŏng Ha-sang, and Companions. Saint Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn was the first priest in Korea. When the missionaries came to Korea, they discovered the Koreans who were already following the Catholic faith but were in need of a flock. They were inspired to learn and practice the faith because of their love for God. When they were persecuted, they accepted their death and martyrdom and showed us a model of the sacrifice of Christ. In our life, we can be tempted to be guilty of pride and elevate ourselves over others. Some of us may be influenced by people who constantly use the name of God in vain. As we see how we struggle in our life, let's trust that Jesus will guide us to our path to heaven because He desires to speak to us through His Word. Blessed are those who listen to Him and follow Him. 

Amen +

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

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Life of Sts. Andrew Kim Tae-gŏn, Paul Chŏng Ha-sang, and Companions:

https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/september-20---sts-andrew-kim-taegon-paul-chong-hasang-and-companions/

Article on Perpetual Virginity and the "Brothers of the Lord"

https://www.catholic.com/tract/brethren-of-the-lord

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/