Monday 5^th October – Monday of the 27th week of the year

Reflection: Luke 10: 25-37

GO AND DO THE SAME YOURSELF

It is sad to know that we Christians often fail to put ourselves in the shoes of those on the receiving end of the adversity of this world. We are blind to the truth that it is only a privilege rather than a right if we are not overrun with difficulties. The priest and Levite, despite their religious affiliation, did not realize that they could have been the ones lying on the road but for God’s grace. Unexpectedly, a Samaritan who ordinarily should have nothing to do with a Jew and whom the Jews considered to be unbelievers took compassion on the helpless man and stopped to help him.

The multiplying number of fraudulent acts committed by people pretending to be in need has hardened many Christians, rendering us uncompassionate. However we should not be deterred by these occurrences but with care, trust in God and filled with the love of Christ and of our neighbours, should show mercy. To shrink from showing compassion to others is to shrink from our Christian identity and responsibility. Our Lord said to St. Faustina- ‘I demand from you deeds of mercy which are to arise out of love for me. You are to show mercy to your neighbours always and everywhere. You must not shrink from this or try to excuse yourself from it. (Diary 742)’

Like the Good Samaritan, we are called to:

• Step forward to help others in need without fear, reluctance or hesitation.
• Use our resources – money, time, energy and so on to reach out to those in need.

“Love the poor, and do not turn your back on them, for if you turn your back on the poor, you turn your back on Christ. He made himself hungry, naked, homeless, so that you and I would have an opportunity to love him.” Bl. Teresa of Calcutta

Just like he told the lawyer in today’s gospel reading, Christ tells you and I: “Go and do the same yourself.”

PRAYER: O God, fount of love and holiness, pour your love into my heart that in loving my neighbour, I may show my great love for you and that your love may be brought to perfection in me. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 449 – What significance do the poor have for Christians?

Love for the poor must be in every age the distinguishing mark of Christians. The poor deserve not just a few alms; they have a claim to justice. For Christians there is a special obligation to share their goods. Our example in love for the poor is Christ.

HIDE A TREASURE: “And now I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” John 13:34 GNB

Today’s readings: Jonah 1:1- 2:1, 11; Jonah 2: 3-5,8 (canticle); Luke 10:25-37