Wednesday 28th October – Feast of SS Simon & Jude, Apostles

Reflection: Ephesians 2: 19-22

WHO ARE YOU?

If a two year old prince of a renowned kingdom is taken out to play with other toddlers, he immerses himself fully into their child’s play without hesitation. When this same prince, at fifteen years of age, goes out into the streets of his father’s kingdom. He cannot behave just like any other person because he is aware that there is something different about him – he is the heir to the throne. He was no less an heir to the throne when he was two years old; he was only unaware of this fact and as the awareness dawns on him, his way of life changes.

The awareness of one’s identity largely influences one’s way of life. As Christians, our lives take on a new dimension at Baptism. We cease to be ordinary people and become members of God’s household and heirs to his kingdom. It is this awareness that St Peter draws our attention to as he tells us: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people…” (1 Pet 2:9). It is this awareness that the Church brings to us as she teaches us that “By Baptism, we share in the priesthood of Christ, in his prophetic and royal mission” (CCC 1268). How conscious are you of your identity? Do you really know who you are?

Just as Jesus called Saints Simon and Jude whose feast we celebrate today to be his apostles, He has called you into His Church, to be a visible sign of His presence in the world. As St Paul tells us in today’s first reading, “You are a citizen like all the saints, and part of God’s household.” (Eph 2:19). Let your awareness of this call reflect in your daily choices and let your thoughts, words and actions “declare the wonderful deeds of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvellous light.”

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, I thank you for the gift of my faith. Please help me to truly be a reflection of your presence in the world. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: CCC 1273 – The Baptismal seal enables and commits Christians to serve God by a vital participation in the holy liturgy of the Church and to exercise their baptismal priesthood by the witness of holy lives and practical charity.

HIDE A TREASURE: “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s own people, that you may declare the wonderful deeds of him who called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” 1 Peter 2:9 RSV-CE

Today’s Readings: Ephesians 2: 19-22; Psalm 19: 1-4; Luke 6: 12-16