Tuesday 3^rd November – Tuesday of week 31 of the year

Reflection: Romans 12: 5-16

BUILDING THE BODY

Physiology was one of the courses I enjoyed most in medical school. As we studied various organ systems I could not but be awed by the amazing complexity of the body and how interdependent the various organs are on each other to function effectively. Indeed, one would understand why St Paul repeatedly uses the analogy of the body in describing our relationship to each other as members of the Church, the Body of Christ.

In today’s first reading, he reminds us that “we belong to each other” (Rom 12:5). Hence, we have a responsibility to look out for each other and to augment one another’s efforts in building up the Church. How much love and respect do you show to other Christians around you? Do you see the needs of others as your own needs too and offer a helping hand in alleviating those needs? St Paul tell us: “make hospitality your special care.” (Rom 12:13).

Dear friends, just like the King in today’s gospel reading, God calls you and I to his banquet, the wedding supper of the Lamb. Our response to this invitation is manifested by thoughts, words and actions. Let us not give excuses by failing to live up to our Christian call to love. Let us not prefer our own business by yielding to the dictates of our selfish human nature. Instead, let us each day renew our commitment to respond to God’s call by using the gifts He has blessed us with to meet the needs of our brethren and to build up the Body of Christ.

PRAYER: Thank you dear Lord for the gifts you have blessed me with. Please help me to honour you with it and to meet the needs of my brethren. Amen.

KNOW YOUR FAITH: YOUCAT 217 – What happens in the Church when she celebrates the Eucharist?

Every time the Church celebrates the Eucharist, she stands before the source from which she herself constantly springs anew. By “eating” the Body of Christ, the Church becomes the Body of Christ, which is just another name for the Church. In the sacrifice of Christ, who gives himself to us, body and soul, there is room for our whole life. We can unite everything – our work and our sufferings, our joys – with Christ’s sacrifice. If we offer ourselves in this way, we are transformed: We become pleasing to God and like good, nourishing bread for our fellowmen.

HIDE A TREASURE: “Love one another with brotherly affection; outdo one another in showing honour” Romans 12:10 RSV-CE

Today’s Readings: Rom 12: 5-16; Psalm 131: 1-3; Lk 14: 15-24