Sunday 31^st August – 22^nd Sunday of the year

Reflection: Romans 12: 1-2

LIVING SACRIFICE

A deep reflection on Jesus’ messianic destiny and how He attained our salvation calls us to embrace its meaning and purpose. Jesus Christ died that we may live (John 10:10). He sacrificed his kingly authority and became humble even to his accepting death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8). Though sinless, he took upon himself all our sins and suffered the death that was our due. Why did Christ do all this? He did this to redeem us from slavery to sin and death; to restore us to friendship with God. The costly price of his blood was paid for our ransom. (1 Peter 1:19)

Beloved in Christ, in response to the great mercy God has shown us (Romans 12:1), we are called to rededicate ourselves to him by offering ourselves as a living sacrifice to Him. Just as burnt offerings were used in the days of old, our lives too must be pleasing to God; drawing others to Christ through a sweet smelling aroma (2 Corinthians 2:15). We must daily fan into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit in us so as to renew our minds and be conformed to godly standards rather than the standards of this world (Romans 12:2). Do you know the will of God? Do you know what is pleasing to him and what is prefect? All this can be assessed by an offering of oneself to the God who leads us and calls us to follow his steps in the path of peace.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I offer myself to you today; take and sanctify me for honor O Lord. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 303 – What does it mean to have fortitude?

Someone who practices fortitude perseveres in his commitment to the good, once he has recognized it, even if in the extreme case he must sacrifice even his own life for it.

 HIDE A TREASURE: “For we are like sweet smelling incense offered to God, which spreads among those who are being saved and those who are being lost” 2 Corinthians 2:15 GNB

Readings for Today: Jeremiah 20:7-9; Psalm 63: 2-9; Romans12:1-2; Matthew 16:21-27