Jesus Comes Our Way

10-26-2022Weekly ReflectionFr. Aruldoss

Dear People of God, Praise the Lord. I am very happy to inform you that our beloved Bishop William P. Callahan, is going to confer six of our Students the Sacrament of Confirmation this Sunday at 3pm (October 30, 2022) at Sts. Peter & Paul, Independence. Let us say an extra prayer for them.

On this 31st Sunday, the liturgy of Word of God reminds us of God’s love, mercy, and salvation for us. In today’s first reading, the book of Wisdom reminds us of the mercy of God which extends to all his creatures irrespective of their status. Hence, in spite of the weakness of humankind, God continues to be merciful: “Yet, you are merciful to all because you can do all things and overlook men’s sins so that they can repent.” In order words, our merciful God gives us the opportunity to retrace our steps.

Today’s Gospel of today presents the story of the conversion of a tax-collector, Zacchaeus, whom God’s grace led to a moment of conversion. It describes how Jesus recognized Zacchaeus for exactly what he was, a lost sinner in need of a Savior, and shows us how God’s grace worked in Zacchaeus to lead him from idle curiosity to repentance, conversion, and restitution. This story of Zacchaeus is a true indication that the merciful Christ comes to seek and save us. Irrespective of all human obstacles, the courage and humility of Zacchaeus attracted the attention and mercy of Christ to him. He refused to be limited by the crowd, or allow his short coming be a hindrance to his salvation. He saw mercy and salvation, and immediately took advantage of them.

In life, there are so many obstacles preventing us from seeing Christ. If we make frantic efforts as Zacchaeus did, Christ will certainly notice us and show us his loving mercy. Therefore, we must rise above all obstacles that prevents us from seeing Christ and receiving his mercy. Paul advised Timothy thus: “Do not to allow any one look down on you because you are young” (I Tim 4:12). Likewise, we must not allow any obstacle prevent us from seeing Christ. Every day Jesus keeps coming our way full of mercy and love. He comes our way through our neighbors, through the sacraments, and through the whole of creation. We should make efforts to recognize our loving Lord and get mercy from Him. Have a Happy and Blessed Sunday!

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