Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop, Doctor 

1 Corinthians 9:16-19,​22-27
Psalm 83(84):3-6,12
Luke 6:39-42

THE LORD IS THE SOURCE OF ALL WISDOM

In today’s responsorial psalm, the concept of God as a rampart and a shield is highlighted. God is portrayed as an abundant source of wisdom, and is described as our king, priest, and prophet.

It is suggested that whenever we encounter a title or role of Jesus, we should consider it as applicable to us as any other. This includes titles such as the great physician, the healer, the Good Shepherd, the Captain, Our High Priest, as they all contribute to the well-being of our body and soul.

It is emphasized that Jesus uses all his dignities and prerogatives for our salvation, protection, and elevation. His complete divinity serves as an unfailing and endless treasure trove, providing us with living water and the essence of life.

Through his incarnation, Jesus offers us his perfect self. He imparts to us the spotless virtue of a faultless character, the meritorious efficacy of a devoted life, and the rewards obtained through obedient submission and unceasing service.

He grants us the unsullied garment of his life as our beautiful covering, adorning us with the resplendent virtues of his character, and allowing us to boast in the superhuman meekness of his death.

Jesus also bequeaths to us his manger as a learning tool illustrating the descent of God to humanity, and his Cross serves as a lesson on how humanity can ascend to God. His thoughts, emotions, actions, utterances, miracles, and intercessions are all committed to our benefit. He has navigated the path of sorrow on our behalf and has bequeathed to us, as a heavenly inheritance, the complete results of all his labors.

He is as much ours now as before, and he does not hesitate to acknowledge himself as “our Lord Jesus Christ,” despite being the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords. Christ is unequivocally and eternally ours to enjoy in abundance.

Fr Joseph Osho