2 Maccabees 7:1,20-31
Psalm 16(17):1,5-6,8,15
Luke 19:11-28
AS WE WAIT IN JOYFUL HOPE FOR THE COMING OF GOD’S KINGDOM, LET US ALIGN OURSELVES WITH THE OPPORTUNITIES THAT THE LORD OFFERS US TODAY
Do not fear executioners… prove yourself worthy… embrace death! In today’s first reading, a mother told her son before martyrdom, having lost seven sons in a day. She spoke for God’s kingdom and her faith, passing it to her sons, leading to persecution.
Never such love or sacrifice. Love triumphed in a fierce battle. What is in our hearts? Do we feel passion for heavenly love? Yes! I long to feel the Lord’s fiery love within us. Christ’s blood, shed to give us life, is priceless.
Do I have a thousand lives to give? Why despair of loving Jesus fiercely? He deserves it—my deepest desire! Martyrs loved fiercely, so why not me?
Some mothers fail to instill resilience, compassion, and truth, sowing hatred and discord. The righteous will be rewarded, in this life or the next.
Today’s Gospel—the parable of the talents—reminds us we all have gifts. They come alive when used. We must use our talents for God’s kingdom. Talents symbolize wealth and our potential. Those who fulfill their responsibilities are rewarded; those who waste them face loss.
Are you diligent with God’s entrusted responsibilities? Are you using your talents as God desires? Reflect on your life—are you serving God with your time, energy, talents, and resources? Do you thank Him for your blessings?
We need God’s grace and others’ support to discover who we are and serve others. Saint Paul says: ‘Fan into flame the gift of God in you… for the Spirit gives us power, love, and self-discipline’ (2 Timothy 1:6-7).
Stand firm for the truth and realize your potential. The time is now—answer the call! Amen.
Fr Joseph Osho