First Reading: (Ephesians 6:10–20)
Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 144:1b, 2, 9–10)
Response: Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
Alleluia: (Luke 19:38; 2:14)
Alleluia, alleluia.
Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests.
Alleluia, alleluia.
Gospel: (Luke 13:31–35)
Reflection
Today's readings present two complementary images: the armor of God and the wings of Christ.
In Ephesians, St. Paul reminds us that life's deepest battles are spiritual. We often think our struggles are against difficult people, unfair circumstances, or disappointing outcomes. Yet Paul directs our attention beyond visible problems. The Christian's strength is not found in personal toughness alone, but in being clothed with God's truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and Word. The armor is not something we forge ourselves; it is something God provides.
In the Gospel, we see Jesus moving resolutely toward Jerusalem despite threats from Herod. He is neither intimidated by power nor distracted by fear. Yet the most striking aspect of the passage is not His courage, but His tenderness. Jesus compared Himself to a mother hen longing to gather her chicks under her wings. The same Lord who equips us for battle is also the Lord who shelters us in love.
There is an important spiritual lesson here. Before we can wear the armor of God, we must first learn to rest beneath the wings of God. Strength without intimacy can become pride. Courage without prayer can become self-reliance. Paul's call to continual prayer reminds us that spiritual victory begins with remaining close to Christ.
Today, let us consider where we feel vulnerable, discouraged, or under attack. Rather than relying solely on our own understanding, resources, let us place ourselves under the protection of the Lord. Let us allow Him to clothe us with His armor and gather us beneath His wings. In Him, strength and mercy meet perfectly.
Amen
No comments:
Post a Comment