We Can't Manipulate God: Mass Readings and Reflections for October 9th 2025

First Reading: (Malachi 3:13–20b)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 1:1–2, 3, 4, 6)

Response: Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.

Alleluia: (Romans 8:15) Alleluia, alleluia.

You have received a Spirit of adoption as sons, through which we cry: “Abba! Father!”
Alleluia.

Gospel: (Luke 11:5–13)

The Reflection

Today’s readings were an invitation to us to rediscover the power of persistence and faithfulness in God.

In Malachi, the people complain that serving God yields no reward, yet the Lord reminds them that those who revere His name will one day shine like the “sun of justice.” God listens, remembers, and acts in His time, not ours. 

In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us to ask, seek, and knock. Prayer is not about manipulating God, but about trusting Him enough to keep asking, even when He seems silent. Like a good Father, He gives not what harms us but what heals, above all, His Holy Spirit.

Today’s feast of Saint Denis and companions, who gave their lives for the faith, reminds us that true discipleship demands courage. St. Denis continued proclaiming Christ even in death, a striking image of faith that persists through persecution.

Let us, too, persevere in faith and prayer, asking for the Holy Spirit to strengthen us, that we might live boldly and faithfully, even when the world misunderstands or mocks our devotion.

God bless and have a wonderful day. St. Dennis, Pray for Us.

-Pal Ronnie-