Saint Cecilia, Virgin, Martyr

1 Maccabees 6:1-13
Psalm 9A(9):2-4,6,16,19
Luke 20:27-40

GOD IS THE SOURCE OF OUR LIVES

In the Gospel passage (Luke 20:27-40), Jesus faces a challenging question from the Sadducees, a Jewish sect skeptical of the resurrection. His powerful reply reveals that God is not a God of the dead, but of the living—meaning our existence continues beyond physical death! The Sadducees, who refused to accept the scriptures and the promise of resurrection, are challenged by this truth.

Their story about a woman with seven husbands echoes the story of Sarah, the wife of Tobias, reminding us of the incredible promise of life after death. Jesus boldly assures us of eternal life for those who trust in Him and believe His promises. Do you believe in Jesus’ life-changing promise? He calls us to share the Good News boldly so that everyone who believes can attain salvation!

Today, we also celebrate the memorial of St. Cecilia, One thing about Cecilia is that she lived a life of gratitude and generosity. She had great love for sacred music She consecrated her virginity in thanksgiving to God yet her parents compelled her to marry a nobleman named Valerian whom she converted to the faith and his brother Tiburtius. The men first suffered martyrdom beheaded for their faith while Cecilia finished her glorious triumph some days after them.

We too are challenged to give to God from what we need to live on. We’re also reminded to give whenever we can & to whoever is in need. No need for heroics – just a sincere and generous heart. No matter what, we’ll always have enough to give whether we’re rich or poor.

May God teach us to be generous and may our generosity be pleasing to Him. Amen.
St Cecilia pray for us. Amen.

Fr Joseph Osho